Elevating Our Legacy
Have you had a conversation?
Week 3
We are on Week 3 of our Black History Month discussions! This week, we focus on how African American inventors continue to impact our daily lives! For example, when you step on an elevator, what African American inventor's name should you know for automating the opening and closing of the elevator door? It's your turn to answer and discuss with family and/or friends. The African American inventors' stories shown below are not an all-inclusive list. There have been countless others who have been at the forefront of innovation. Let's strive to maintain the legacy of African American history.
How many names of the African American inventors listed below do you know before clicking on the "Who am I?" answer link? Their inventions helped shape the life we live today!
My invention contributed to a safer society. I created the first home security system. It was the first closed-circuit television security system and it paved the way for the modern home security systems we use today. Who am I?
My invention was the first successful mobile refrigeration system. It revolutionized the transportation of food, blood plasma, and fresh produce. I was also the first African American to receive the National Medal of Technology, and I was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2007. Who am I?
I was a wealthy African American barber, inventor, and businessperson. I received a patent for a technology that would revolutionize the way we use high-rise buildings forever. My invention is the automatic elevator door. Every time you step on an elevator, the doors open and close because of my invention. Who am I?
Potato chips are a common snack that nearly everyone has tried at least once. I am a famous African American chef who invented the potato chip. I had intended to make french fries, but a guest said they were too thick. Annoyed, I prepared another batch of very thin, deep-fried slices. The guests loved them! Who am I?
As you age, your vision may get a little blurry. I invented laser phaco, a new device, and technique to remove cataracts. My invention performed all the steps of cataract removal: making the incision, destroying the lens, and vacuuming out the fractured pieces. I am also the first African American woman physician to receive a medical patent. Who am I?
Do you remember seeing clothes hanging outside to dry - especially in movies? Today, many HOAs have banned the use of the outdoor 'clothes-line'. I created a solution to this laborious process with my invention of the automatic clothes dryer. I obtained my patent in 1893. Who am I?
When you approach a traffic light at an intersection, I invented a device that would reduce accidents - a three-position traffic signal that added a third "cautionary" light between "stop and go." My traffic signal invention greatly improved road safety and became a standard fixture in cities around the world. Being a man of many interests, I also invented the gas mask and a breathing device for firefighters. Who am I?
