Benjamin Bannekers Letter to Thomas Jefferson: Ethos Pathos Logos

Introduction:

In the annals of American history, one name stands out as a symbol of intellect, determination, and moral righteousness: Benjamin Banneker. A free African American mathematician, astronomer, and writer, Banneker rose to prominence in the late 18th century for his remarkable contributions to science and his fearless advocacy for racial equality. One of his most notable works is the letter he penned to Thomas Jefferson, then the Secretary of State, on August 19, 1791. In this letter, Banneker employed a masterful use of ethos, pathos, and logos to challenge the prevailing attitudes towards African Americans and to advocate for their civil rights.

This essay will explore the persuasive strategies used by Banneker in his letter and how they contributed to the shaping of American discourse on race and equality.

I. Ethos: Establishing Credibility and Authority

Benjamin Banneker's ethos in his letter to Thomas Jefferson primarily emanates from his impressive background as a self-taught mathematician and astronomer. Banneker was born to freed slaves in 1731 in Maryland and received minimal formal education.

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However, his insatiable curiosity and innate genius led him to study mathematics, astronomy, and natural sciences independently. He built a wooden clock entirely from memory and accurately predicted solar and lunar eclipses, gaining recognition as a respected scholar within the scientific community.

In the opening lines of his letter, Banneker directly addresses Jefferson as "Sir" and declares his intention to speak "with that freedom which the age and country I live in might be supposed to allow." By emphasizing the norms of his time and place, Banneker seeks to establish a respectful tone while highlighting his right to express his ideas freely.

He further bolsters his credibility by mentioning that he has "taken the liberty of addressing" Jefferson, subtly indicating that he is aware of the unusual nature of a letter from an African American to a prominent white statesman.

Additionally, Banneker references the values that the new American nation claims to hold dear: liberty, justice, and equality. By aligning himself with these ideals, Banneker appeals to the common ground shared by all Americans, regardless of race, and underscores the hypocrisy of denying these principles to African Americans. His ability to convey his own intelligence, moral integrity, and connection to the nation's values is instrumental in establishing his ethos and laying the foundation for his subsequent arguments.

II. Pathos: Evoking Emotion and Empathy

Banneker employs poignant pathos throughout his letter to appeal to Jefferson's emotions and empathy. He does this by recounting the inhumane treatment endured by African Americans under the chains of slavery. He draws upon his own experiences, stating that he has "witnessed the sufferings of the unhappy," thus emphasizing his personal connection to the issue. Banneker further leverages the power of emotion by vividly describing the horrors of slavery, pointing out that these individuals, though "possessing the same faculties of the mind" as whites, are subject to "the lash of oppression."

By invoking the suffering and injustice faced by African Americans, Banneker compels Jefferson to confront the human toll of slavery. He implores Jefferson to see beyond the abstract political arguments and consider the real lives affected by the institution. This emotional appeal attempts to break down the barriers of indifference that may have shielded Jefferson from the plight of enslaved individuals and instill a sense of responsibility and compassion within him.

III. Logos: Using Logic and Reason

In addition to ethos and pathos, Banneker employs a strong sense of logos in his letter to build a compelling and logically sound argument. He directly challenges Jefferson's claim that blacks are inherently inferior to whites by pointing to the shared humanity and intellect of all individuals. Banneker underscores that African Americans are born with the same "faculties of the mind" as their white counterparts, meaning they possess equal capacity for reason, creativity, and progress.

To reinforce his argument, Banneker employs quantitative evidence, citing the accomplishments of notable African Americans like Phyllis Wheatley, a renowned poet, and Anthony Benezet, an influential abolitionist. These examples demonstrate that African Americans can achieve greatness when given the opportunity to access education and freedom. Furthermore, Banneker appeals to Jefferson's commitment to science and reason, reminding him of the scientific evidence that supports the equality of all human races.

Conclusion:

Benjamin Banneker's letter to Thomas Jefferson serves as a powerful testament to the intelligence, eloquence, and passion of an extraordinary man who dared to challenge the prevailing racial prejudices of his time. By utilizing the persuasive techniques of ethos, pathos, and logos, Banneker aimed to dismantle the foundations of slavery and racism while advocating for the civil rights of African Americans. His letter represents a profound moment in American history, where the voice of an educated African American rang out against injustice, striving to redefine the course of a nation. As we continue to reflect on Banneker's legacy, we are reminded of the indomitable human spirit that can shape the trajectory of progress and justice, regardless of race or background.