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Black Inventors Who Changed Everyday Life: Innovations That Still Shape Our World

Many of the everyday conveniences we rely on today—from essential household tools to critical safety devices—were made possible by the ingenuity, perseverance, and brilliance of Black inventors. Often working in the face of systemic racism, limited access to funding, and widespread exclusion from formal institutions, these trailblazers not only brought groundbreaking ideas to life but also reshaped the way we live, work, and connect. Their contributions have become integral to modern society, yet their stories are too often overlooked. Here are just a few of the many Black innovators whose inventions continue to impact our daily lives—whether we realize it or not.

Home Comforts and Conveniences

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Black inventors have significantly improved our home lives through their ingenuity. 

The Ironing Board

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One such invention that revolutionized household chores is the ironing board, patented by Sarah Boone on April 26, 1892. Boone, an African-American dressmaker, transformed the way we prepare our clothes with her improved design, making the task of ironing more efficient and convenient.

Security Systems

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In the area of home security, we have Mary Van Brittan Brown to thank for creating the first at-home security system in 1966. As a nurse working long hours in a high-crime neighborhood, Brown developed a system using cameras and two-way microphones to monitor visitors, laying the groundwork for modern home security technology.

Temperature Regulation

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Our comfort throughout the year is largely due to the innovations of two Black inventors. David Crosthwait Jr. developed crucial components of air conditioning systems, holding over 39 patents including one for thermostat control. Meanwhile, Alice H. Parker revolutionized home heating with her design for a natural gas central heating furnace, patented in 1919.

Transportation and Infrastructure

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The way we move and navigate our cities has been profoundly influenced by Black inventors. Garrett Morgan’s contribution to traffic safety cannot be overstated. In 1922, he patented the first traffic signal to include a “caution” signal – what we now know as the yellow light. This simple yet crucial addition has undoubtedly saved countless lives since its implementation.

Transporting Perishables

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Our ability to transport perishable goods over long distances owes much to Frederick McKinley Jones. In 1935, he invented an automatic refrigeration system for trucks and trailers. This technology was later adapted for other modes of transportation, including ships and planes, revolutionizing the food industry and global trade.

Elevator Safety

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Alexander Miles made a significant contribution to elevator safety. In 1887, he patented a design for automatic elevator doors, greatly reducing the risk of accidents and paving the way for the modern elevators we use today.

Communication and Technology

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The technology we use to communicate and work has been heavily influenced by Black inventors. James West, along with a colleague, invented the foil electret microphone in the 1960s. This compact design is used in approximately 90% of microphones today, finding applications in devices ranging from telephones to hearing aids.

Who’s Calling?

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Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson’s theoretical physics research at Bell Laboratories laid the groundwork for several communication technologies we now take for granted, including caller ID, call waiting, fiber optic cables, and the portable fax machine.

Computer Technology

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In the world of computing, Mark Dean made significant contributions during his time at IBM. He helped create technology that led to the first gigahertz chip and color PC monitor. Dean’s work was instrumental in advancing personal computing technology to where it is today.

Entertainment and Leisure

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Even our leisure activities have been enhanced by Black inventors. Lisa Gelobter, a computer scientist and entrepreneur, is credited with creating the animations that make up GIFs. These short, looping animations have become a ubiquitous part of online communication and meme culture.

I Love A Super Soaker!

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For those who enjoy outdoor water activities, you can thank Lonnie Johnson for inventing the Super Soakerwater gun. This popular toy has brought joy to countless children and adults since its introduction in the 1990s.

Food and Culinary Innovations

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Some of our favorite snacks and beverages owe their existence to Black inventors. George Crum, a chef and restaurateur, is credited with inventing potato chips in 1853. What started as a response to a customer complaint became one of the most popular snack foods worldwide.

We have Black inventors to thank for both instant and dry coffee6. These innovations have made it possible for millions of people to enjoy their daily caffeine fix quickly and conveniently.

Medical Advancements

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Black inventors have also made significant contributions to the field of medicine. Patricia Bath created the Laserphaco Probe, a device used to treat and remove cataracts. Her invention has restored sight to countless individuals worldwide.

Percy Lavon Julian, a pioneering chemist, made vital contributions to modern medicine through his work with soybeans. He synthesized physostigmine for treating glaucoma and discovered methods to mass-produce cortisone and progesterone. These breakthroughs have had a lasting impact on the treatment of various medical conditions.

Conclusion

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The inventions highlighted here represent just a fraction of the contributions made by Black inventors throughout history. From household items like the ironing board and security systems to groundbreaking technologies in transportation, communication, and medicine, Black innovators have played a crucial role in shaping the world we live in today.

It’s important to note that many of these inventors faced significant challenges due to racial discrimination. For instance, Thomas Jennings, who patented a dry-cleaning method in 1821, became the first African American to be granted a patent. His achievement came at a time when slavery was still legal in much of the United States, highlighting the additional hurdles Black inventors had to overcome.

Despite these obstacles, Black inventors have consistently demonstrated remarkable ingenuity and perseverance. Their contributions extend far beyond what can be covered in a single article, with African Americans receiving 50,000 patents during the industrial revolution alone.

Celebrate Beyond Black History Month

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As we celebrate Black History Month, let’s remember and honor these brilliant minds whose innovations continue to impact our daily lives. Their legacy serves as an inspiration for future generations of inventors and a reminder of the importance of diversity in driving innovation and progress.

By recognizing and celebrating these contributions, we not only honor the past but also encourage a more inclusive future in the fields of science, technology, and innovation. The story of Black inventors is an integral part of American history and a testament to the power of human ingenuity in the face of adversity.

Why Personal Photos On Your Phone Screen Can Pose Security Risks

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We live in a digital age, and while it can offer convenience, we have to be mindful of what we share, for personal security’s sake. Our smartphones, for instance, have become more than just devices; they are extensions of our identities. It’s not uncommon to see individuals customizing their phones with personal photos as wallpapers. While this may seem like a harmless way to express oneself, it can inadvertently expose users to various privacy and security risks. In this article, we explain why setting a personal photo as your phone screen might not be the wisest decision, and we offer alternative solutions to mitigate these risks. READ: Why Personal Photos On Your Phone Screen Can Pose Security Risks

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  • Dede Wilson Headshot Circle

    Dédé Wilson is a journalist with over 17 cookbooks to her name and is the co-founder and managing partner of the digital media partnership Shift Works Partners LLC, currently publishing through two online media brands, FODMAP Everyday® and The Queen Zone.

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