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Top 10 Books on African-Americans in Astronomy and Space

by Nick Greene
for About.com

African-Americans have played a major role in the history of the United States of America and have much to be proud of. Here, we discover some of the best books dealing with a few of the achievements of African-Americans in the fields of astronomy and space.

1. Benjamin Banneker: Pioneering Scientist

This biography by Ginger Wadsworth, Craig Orback (Illustrator) introduces Benjamin Banneker, a free black man of the eighteenth century who loved to learn and used his knowledge and observations to build a wooden clock, write an almanac, and help survey the streets of Washington, DC.

2. Technology & the African-American Experience: Needs and Opportunities for Study

Technology and the Afrian-American Experience
This book, edited by Bruce Sinclair, brings together two subjects which have long been connected, but also segregated from one another. It examines examines the intersection of race and technology in a variety of social and technological contexts.

3. The Life of Benjamin Banneker: The First African-American Man of Science

This biography by Silvio A. Bedini has been called the definitive biography of Benjamin Banneker. It is an excellent addition to anyone's bookshelf.

4. African American Inventors

Otha Richard Sullivan describes the struggle, passion and empowerment of the black experience. This book introduces children to the dreamers whose ideas and ingenuity changed the way we live.

5. Distinguished African Americans in Aviation and Space Science

By Betty Kaplan Gubert, Miriam Sawyer, Caroline M. Fannin - This is a monumental work, describing some of the bravest people who ever lived. It's a must read for anyone who is interested in aviation or space exploration.

6. Black Stars: African American Women Scientists and Inventors

By Otha Richard Sullivan, Jim Haskins (Editor) - A stunning tribute to some women who have made such a difference in our lives.

7. Distinguished African American Scientists of the 20th Century

By James H. Kessler, J. S. Kidd, Renee A. Kidd, Katherine A. Morin - From George Washington Carver to Dr. Mae Jemison, African Americans have made significant contributions to science. This book provides a closer look at some of them who lived in the 2oth century.

8. Black Pioneers of Science and Invention

By Louis Haber - Details the lives of 14 people who have made a difference in our lives.

9. They Had a Dream: The Story of African-American Astronauts

By J. Alfred Phelps - This very hard to find book is the definitive story of African-Americans in space exploration.

10. Black Women Scientists in the United States (Race, Gender, and Science)

By Wini Warren, Wini Warren - The author teaches in the American Studies program at the State University of New York College at Old Westbury. She discusses scientists who really might have the deck stacked against them.

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