Black History Month allows the extra opportunity to recognize African Americans whose achievements have impacted our lives today. To highlight some of these individuals, once a week, WFSU Education intern Billye Frost will be discussing entrepreneurs and inventors on our Instagram and Facebook that have made a lasting influence. From innovative technologies like home security systems to farming techniques, these American inventors have laid the foundation and set the progression of the world we know today. We have compiled these posts into this week’s Education Blog.
The first inventor selected is Garrett Augustus Morgan. Born in Kentucky on March 4, 1877 then passing on July 27, 1963, Morgan lived a life of bringing his engineering ideas to life. After establishing his life as a businessman in Cleveland in1895 doing sewing machine repairs, Morgan filed patents to develop the precursors to life-saving inventions. From the “safety hood” to prevent smoke inhalation for first responders to the “caution light” that reduced the risk of traffic collisions, Morgan’s devices showcase his continuous societal influence. His work demonstrates how engineering products can directly save lives. For more resources on Garrett Morgan, check out PBS Learning Media resource Know Ohio for grades 3-8.
Marie van Brittain Brown is our next inventor highlighted this month. She was born in New York on October 30, 1922 and passed away on February 2, 1999. Brown was a registered nurse who became one of the most influential inventors to date! The invention she created was the groundbreaking home security system. She developed her own home security system as a precaution for nights when her husband had to work. Using a microphone, peepholes, and even a way to contact authorities, her system invention began the home security systems society, and businesses rely on daily to protect lives and property all over the world!
Another inventor we celebrate is George Washington Carver. While his true birth date is unknown, he was born around 1864 and passed on January 5, 1943. George Washington Carver’s thorough research on crop rotation and innovative uses for crops like peanuts altered the agricultural standard for farmers in the South! Not only did crop rotations improve the soil quality, and thus the diet and food supply for southern farmers, but it also opened the door for economic opportunity. Carver’s farming practices improved the livelihoods of so many individuals plus left a legacy for us to learn from. Check out Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum for grades K-2 on PBS Learning Media for more information.
The final inventor we will spotlight is Marian Croak. She was born on May 14,1955 and to date has thus far developed over 200 inventions! Croak has played a vital role in shaping modern digital communication. Some of her contributions include the development of the “text-to-donate” system for charities after natural disasters and her “Voice over Internet Protocol” to communicate on the internet, Croak’s innovative technologies continue to make lasting impacts. Her inventions and perseverance have completely altered the way we utilize modern technology.
Celebrating and highlighting inventors like Morgan, Brown, Carver, and Croak during Black History Month is essential for all of us to recognize how many American’s, from all over our country, use their creativity and innovation to continue to influence and improve the way we live, communicate, and stay safe today. For more resources during Black History Month, check out PBS Learning Media!
