From George Washington Carver to Dr. Mae Jemison, African Americans have been making outstanding contributions in the field of science. This unique resource goes beyond the headlines in chronicling not just the scientific achievements but also the lives of 100 remarkable men and women. Each biography provides an absorbing account of the scientist's struggles, which often included overcoming prejudice, as they pursued their educational and professional goals.

The author surveys the history of African Americans in the sciences. Europeans had experience with a few black scientists from the early 18th century, though because American scientists of the time were less advanced and free blacks typically pursued education in medicine or invention rather than pure scientist, Benjamin Banneker in the late 18th century was the only African American engaged in pure science until the end of the Civil War. Following emancipation, black colleges and universities sprang up to provide systematic education to freed blacks, although scientific education was a low priority. Not until the early twentieth century did a group of black scientists emerge who received PhDs from major white universities, pursued science at the research level, and published in the leading scientific journals of the day. The Second World War brought some public notice to black scientists, and after the war, a few white universities did begin to open up opportunities for blacks on their faculty as well as for blacks seeking graduate training within the departments. The author overviews the increasing numbers of and opportunities for African American scientists in the second half of the 20th century, but details the many educational and other barriers that continue to keep African Americans very underrepresented in the sciences. Manning examines the role of African Americans in evaluating and challenging scientific theories of race, from cranial and physical theories to eugenics and genetic analysis. Following the essay, a bibliography of recommended reading, a chronology of events from 1753 to 1995, and a glossary are presented.

Examines the lives and achievements of seven black Americans who left their mark through scientific work, from Benjamin Banneker to Matthew Henson.

Discusses the lives and accomplishments of scientists who persevered in the name of science.

Presents the lives and accomplishments of nine African American inventors whose inventions changed the world, including Howard Latimer, George Washington Carver, and Madam C.J. Walker.

Some of them were elementary school dropouts. Others became medical doctors or college professors. Some were famous, while some toiled in obscurity. Some became rich. Others remained poor their whole lives. But the African-American scientists and inventors profiled in this book had one thing in common: a determination to succeed. And in pursuing their dreams, these creative thinkers made the world a better place. Lewis Latimer devised a manufacturing process that made electric lights affordable for ordinary people. Charles Drew did pioneering work in blood storage, helping save countless lives. Garrett Woods figured out how to send messages from moving trains. Learn about these and many other black scientists and inventors in this fascinating book.

The astronauts, physicists, chemists, biologists, agriculture specialists, and others who have dedicated their lives to improving humankind's knowledge and understanding of the universe through science, math, and invention are.