I watched the PBS documentary “George Washington Carver: An Uncommon Life” about perhaps the most famous black scientist, George Washington Carver. It’s worth noting that his success stemmed from a profound curiosity and eagerness to learn from a very young age. At just 12 years old, he undertook an 8-mile journey to attend school, showcasing his determination. Additionally, his early fascination with nature and plants laid the groundwork for his future research endeavors.

Implicit in the recounting of his early years and collegiate experiences is the suggestion that Carver possessed innate abilities or unique qualities. This narrative aligns with the enduring notion in American culture of innate genius or talent. With the rise of works like Anders Ericsson’s research and Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers, there has been heightened scrutiny on the quantity and quality of practice undertaken by successful individuals leading up to their achievements. This ignites the age-old debate of nature versus nurture. What insights do we have into Carver’s work ethic and study habits on his path to success? When did he achieve mastery? While not explicitly stated, there are indications that Carver’s success was driven by his diligent efforts, particularly during his tenure as a professor.

Original draft written in October 2019