Black Inventors Have Left a Powerful Legacy of Development and Creativity in Everyday Technology in America

Black inventors have contributed to everyday technology in America, further back than our historical records. However, since the nineteenth century, many recognized individuals have been behind some of the creations that have helped to change the world. The first Black inventor to be granted a US patent was Thomas L. Jennings, who pioneered dry cleaning with his revolutionary procedure for cleaning clothes. Jennings’ success opened the door for countless other inventors to advance technology and improve everyday life with their contributions.

1.) Thomas L. Jennings

As the first Black American recipient of a US patent, Thomas L. Jennings started the ball rolling for other Black inventors to create significant patented products as well. Jennings was a businessman and tailor in New York City when he began experimenting with dry-cleaning delicate clothing.

He invented a process known as “dry-scouring,” and applied for a patent in 1820. The next year, Jennings received approval that made US history. Thanks to Jennings, cleaning items made of silk, velvet, wool, and leather is made simple with his significant invention.

2.) Elijah McCoy

Elijah McCoy received fifty-seven patents during his lifetime, one of which became known as “the real McCoy.” But one of the most practical inventions he created was the ironing board. His wife’s frustration with ironing on uneven surfaces led to his invention to make her life easier.

Patented in May 1874, the ironing board has been a great convenience, improving everyday life for millions of households in America and the world. McCoy, a prolific Black inventor, also invented the lawn sprinkler, a great asset for homeowners. 

3.) Alexander Miles

Alexander Miles is the man to thank for automatic elevator doors. Miles received a patent for his design in 1867; before this, riders manually opened and closed two sets of doors upon entering and exiting elevators. Then called elevator cars, if passengers forgot to close one door, subsequent riders risked plunging down the elevator shaft, often fatally.

As “necessity is the mother of invention,” Miles created a machine that forced both elevators to close the doors synchronously, preventing accidents. Hats off to dynamic Black inventor Alexander Miles for making modern elevators safe. 

4.) Marie Van Brittan Brown

Marie Van Brittan Brown was a nurse and New York City resident who felt unsafe in her crime-filled neighborhood. Brown invented a home security system prototype by setting up a motorized camera that recorded her home entryway and projected images onto her TV monitor.

She also rigged a two-way microphone, allowing her to communicate with visitors while her door was closed, and a panic button, notifying police of any emergencies. Brown applied for a patent in 1966 for her closed-circuit TV security system and received approval in 1969. Security system owners across America and throughout the world owe their home safety systems to Brown. 

5.) Patricia Bath

Patrica Bath received a medical patent in 1986, becoming the first Black inventor and female doctor to do so. She invented the Laserphaco Probe, a laser treatment device for cataracts. Bath was a co-founder of the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness, who, in 1988, patented her invention, which is currently used worldwide and has helped improve the sight of millions. 

6.) Shirley Ann Jackson

Shirley Ann Jackson is a scientist, educator, and university administrator whose work helped advance technologies, making communication easier and faster. Jackson’s theoretical physics experiments and knowledge of physics contributed to advancements in telecommunications research while employed with Bell Laboratories.

Her work led to the development of fiber optics, caller ID, and touch-tone telephones. Jackson owns no patent rights, but her research has influenced the development of modern communication systems. Jackson’s extensive contributions have earned her the right to be listed among America’s Black inventors.

February is Black History Month

As Black History Month comes to an end, remember, if you haven’t already, the invaluable contributions of Black inventors like Jennings, McCoy, Miles, Brown, Bath, and Jackson, who have made our lives easier and more efficient. They are just a few among a multitude of Black inventors who have contributed to technological advancements, assisting us on an everyday basis. Celebrate their achievements that have left a legacy of technological advancements for the world.