Thomas Fuller: The Extraordinary Mind Behind the 'Virginia Calculator'

Thomas Fuller's story is a remarkable testament to the human mind's capacity for mathematical calculation and resilience in the face of adversity. Born in Africa around 1710, Fuller was captured and enslaved at the tender age of 14 in 1724. His life took a dramatic turn when he was transported to the British colony of Virginia, where he would eventually earn the nickname "the Virginia Calculator."

Despite the harsh conditions of slavery, Fuller's extraordinary mathematical abilities soon came to light. His talent for mental arithmetic was nothing short of astounding, earning him widespread recognition among both slaveholders and fellow captives. Fuller's ability to solve complex mathematical problems entirely in his head was unparalleled, earning him admiration and respect from all who witnessed his skills.

One particularly famous anecdote highlights Fuller's remarkable talent. When asked how many seconds there were in a year and a half, Fuller effortlessly calculated the answer to be 47,304,000 in just two minutes. Similarly, when posed with the question of how many seconds a man had lived at the age of 70 years, 17 days, and 12 hours, Fuller swiftly replied with the astonishing figure of 2,210,500,800 in a mere minute and a half.

However, Fuller's brilliance did not go unchallenged. On one occasion, as he was demonstrating his abilities, a skeptic attempted to verify Fuller's calculations using pen and paper. To the skeptic's surprise, the results initially appeared to contradict Fuller's answers. Undeterred, Fuller quickly pointed out the oversight, reminding the skeptic to account for leap years. Once the leap year was factored in, Fuller's calculations were proven to be accurate, silencing any doubts about his mathematical prowess.

Despite enduring the hardships of slavery, Thomas Fuller's story serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the boundless potential of the mind. His legacy as the "Virginia Calculator" continues to inspire awe and admiration, reminding us of the incredible feats that can be achieved through intellect, determination, and perseverance, even in the face of adversity.

Black History Notable Figures: Mr. Thomas Fuller / Black Discoveries