Introduction:
Throughout history, the contributions made by inventors of African descent have often been overlooked or overshadowed. From everyday items to groundbreaking technologies, there are countless innovations that were made possible thanks to the ingenuity and creativity of black inventors. In this article series, we aim to shed light on some of these remarkable inventions that have greatly influenced our lives. Join us as we explore Episode 1 of “100 Things You Didn’t Know Were Invented by Black People.”
1. Automatic Elevator Doors – Alexander Miles:
Imagine a world without automatic elevator doors. Alexander Miles, an African American inventor, received a patent in 1887 for his design of the automatic elevator doors that we use today.
2. Traffic Lights – Garrett Morgan:
Every time we encounter traffic lights on our daily commute, we have Garrett Morgan to thank. Morgan patented his invention in 1923, which became instrumental in keeping traffic organized and reducing accidents on busy streets.
3. The Three-Light Railroad Signal – Granville T. Woods:
During the late 19th century, Granville T. Woods invented an improved version of the railroad system’s signaling technology – the three-light signal system. This advancement greatly enhanced safety on railway tracks.
4. Super Soaker Water Gun – Lonnie G. Johnson:
One iconic summer toy is the Super Soaker water gun that brings joy to people worldwide since its introduction in 1990 by inventor Lonnie G. Johnson.
5. Electric Microphone – James E. West:
Inventor James E. West played a pivotal role in developing the electric microphone while working at Bell Laboratories in 1962, revolutionizing audio technology and communication systems.
6. Home Security System with Remote Control – Marie Van Brittan Brown:
In response to rising crime rates during the 1960s, Marie Van Brittan Brown designed a patent for a home security system using television surveillance and a remote-controlled door locking mechanism.
7. Personal Care Products: Madam C.J. Walker:
Known for her entrepreneurial spirit, Madam C.J. Walker became the first self-made female millionaire in the United States by creating and marketing a line of hair care products tailored to black women’s needs during the early 1900s.
8. Refrigerated Trucks – Frederick McKinley Jones:
Frederick McKinley Jones patented designs for various refrigeration systems, including one specifically designed for trucks, revolutionizing the transportation of perishable goods.
9. Guitar Neck Support – D.C. Rice:
D.C. Rice invented an adjustable neck support that attaches to guitars and other stringed instruments, easing musicians’ tension while playing and enhancing their performance capabilities.
10. Thermostat Control Unit – Frederick M. Jones:
Frederick M. Jones devised the first practical and reliable automatic cooling system for trucks in 1940, known as the “Thermo King.”
These are just some of the many extraordinary inventions crafted by black inventors throughout history. By exploring these groundbreaking innovations, we gain a deeper appreciation for these individuals’ contributions to society.
Conclusion:
Inventors of African descent have made significant contributions to various fields, impacting our lives in numerous ways that we often take for granted. This article explored just a handful of remarkable inventions in Episode 1 of “100 Things You Didn’t Know Were Invented by Black People.” Stay tuned for more exciting revelations highlighting black innovators who have shaped our world in unimaginable ways.
