Celebrating Black Innovators: Breaking Barriers and Building a Legacy

Every year, Black History Month in the United Kingdom provides us with a precious opportunity to celebrate the contributions of Black individuals who have made a profound impact on society. It's a time to reflect on their remarkable achievements and acknowledge the obstacles they faced, all while emphasising the significance of diversity and inclusion in unlocking the full potential of our world.

One remarkable aspect of Black history that often goes overlooked is the extensive list of inventions and innovations attributed to Black inventors. In 1913, a survey of approximately 8,000 registered patent attorneys identified 1,200 inventions linked to individuals of African-American ancestry, with 800 of them confirmed. These inventors not only created groundbreaking solutions but also demonstrated unwavering resilience in the face of adversity.

Marie Van Brittan Brown – Home Security System

In 1966, Marie Van Brittan Brown and her husband, Albert Brown, revolutionised home security by inventing the home security system. Feeling unsafe in her neighbourhood, Marie designed a device that would offer her a sense of safety within her own home. Her creation laid the foundation for the modern home security systems we rely on today.

Garrett Morgan – Traffic Signal

In 1923, Garrett Morgan introduced the traffic light signal system. He observed the chaotic and dangerous traffic on the streets and recognized the need for regulation. His innovation included the yellow warning light, which gives drivers crucial time to react. Morgan's invention was so groundbreaking that he sold the rights to General Electric for $40,000.

Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner – Sanitary Belt/Towel

In 1956, Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner improved the sanitary belt, offering women an adjustable, leak-proof solution during their menstrual cycles. Despite facing initial rejection of her patent application due to racial discrimination, she received her well-deserved recognition 30 years later.

Valerie Thomas – 3D Film, TV, and Medical Imaging Precursor

Valerie Thomas's 1977 invention of the 3D illusion transmitter paved the way for various 3D technologies, including 3D films, 3D TVs, and modern medical imaging.

Alexander Miles – Elevator Door Design Improvements

In 1887, Alexander Miles made critical improvements to elevator technology, allowing doors to open and close automatically, enhancing safety and convenience.

W. A. Martin - Lock

In 1889, W. A. Martin patented a lock that improved upon a design originating over 4,000 years ago, contributing to the modern door lock we use today.

Paul E. Williams – Helicopter Components

Paul E. Williams's contributions in 1962 advanced helicopter technology, including his involvement in the development of the "first useful helicopter."

There have been a number of inventions by Black inventors that have helped further the world. Is Paul E. Williams one of these Black inventors? Although there seem to be no official records of Williams inventing the helicopter, in Black history circles, he is often credited with being the actual inventor behind the practical helicopter.

According to?Black Culture News , Williams invented the components of the “first useful helicopter” and he patented the “first useful helicopter” the Lockheed Model 186 (XH-51) on Nov. 26, 1962.

George Crum – Potato Chip (Crisps in the UK)

In 1853, George Crum, a chef at the Moon Lake Lodge resort in New York, invented the potato chip by accident. His innovation was sparked by a customer complaint about the thickness of French fries, leading to the creation of this beloved snack.

This list of inventors and their creations is just a glimpse of the extensive contributions made by Black innovators throughout history. Their remarkable achievements in various fields, including medicine, transportation, and everyday conveniences, reflect the immense potential that resides within marginalised communities.

As we celebrate Black History Month, it is crucial to recognise that these inventors not only overcame the racial barriers of their time but also demonstrated extraordinary resilience and determination. Their innovations have transformed our lives and continue to inspire generations.

Diversity and inclusion in the workplace are essential for unearthing such greatness. When opportunities are readily available to all, regardless of their background, we create a fertile ground for innovation and progress. The stories of these inventors serve as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when we break down barriers and provide equal opportunities for all.

As we near the end of Black History Month, let us all take a moment to appreciate the greatness in all people, especially those who have faced formidable barriers in life. Organisations like Bridge of Hope Careers understand the potential of every individual and strive to open doors to all disadvantaged groups, recognising that brilliance knows no boundaries.

Black history is a testament to human resilience, creativity, and the boundless capacity for innovation. Let us continue to celebrate the contributions of Black inventors and honour their legacy by promoting diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities in all aspects of our lives. It's through these efforts that we can ensure a brighter and more inclusive future for everyone.

Check out this Black Inventors online museum for more knowledge: https://blackinventor.com/?utm_content=cmp-true

Thank you black inventors for the following inventions too and I am sorry we didn’t get to learn more about you all in our schools. You have been hidden from us ALL for such a long time.

3D TECHNOLOGY, AEROPLANE PROPELLING, BISCUIT CUTTER, FOLDING BED, COIN CHANGER, ROTARY ENGINE, CAR COUPLER, LETTER BOX, STAINLESS STEEL PADS, TORPEDO DISCHARGER, DISPOSABLE SYRINGE, HOME SECURITY SYSTEM, CORN PLANTER, COTTON PLANTER, IRONING BOARD, STREET SWEEPERS, HORSE BRIDLE BIT, HORSESHOE, LAWN MOWER, TYPEWRITER, TRAIN-ALARM, IMAGE CONVERTER FOR RADIATION DETECTOR, PEANUT BUTTER, PAINTS AND STAINS, LOTIONS AND SOAPS, AUTOMATIC FISHING REEL, ICE CREAM MOLD, PRINTING PRESS, ENVELOPE SEAL, LASER FUELS, PRESSURE COOKER, WINDOW CLEANER, PENCIL SHARPENER, FIRE EXTINGUISHER, LOCK, SHOE LASTING MACHINE, LUBRICATORS, ROCKET CATAPULT, ELEVATOR, GAS MASK, TRAFFIC SIGNAL, HAIR BRUSH, HEATING FURNACE, AIR SHIP, FOLDING CHAIR, FOUNTAIN PEN, DUST PAN, INSECT DESTROYER GUN, BABY BUGGY, SUGAR REFINEMENT, CLOTHES DRIER, CELLULAR PHONE, PRESSING COMB, CURTAIN ROD, LAWN SPRINKLER, AUTOMATIC GEAR SHIFT, URINALYSIS MACHINE, HORSE RIDING SADDLE, PLAYER PIANO, ARM FOR RECORD PLAYER, DOOR STOP, DOOR KNOB, PHOTO PRINT WASH, PHOTO EMBOSSING MACHINE, POSTAL LETTER BOX, TOILET COMMODE, FURNITURE CASTER, GUITAR, THERMO HAIR CURLERS, LANTERN GAS BURNER, KITCHEN TABLE, BICYCLE FRAME, WRENCH, EYE PROTECTOR, EGG BEATER, AIR CONDITIONING UNIT, TWO-CYCLE GAS ENGINE, INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE, STARTER GENERATOR, REFRIGI1RATION, BOTTLE CAPS, ELECTRIC LAMP, HYDRAIILIC SHOCK ABSORBER, REFRIGERATOR, MOP, STAIR-CLIMBING WHEELCHAIR, FIRE ESCAPE LADDER, TELEPHONE TRANSMITTER, ELECTRIC CUT-OFF SWITCH, ELECTRIC RAILWAY SYSTEM, ROLLER COASTER, AUTO AIR BRAKE, HELICOPTER, BLOOD PLASMA, ICE CREAM SCOOP, PACE MAKER, THE FIRST BLOODBANK TO NAME ONLY SOME.

THANK YOU ALL FOR BEING THE SHOULDERS WE STAND ON. INSPIRATIONAL!

I still cannot believe children are not taught this in school. Equity will follow the truth. Only when we all know the truth about black contributions to our world, will be reduce the biases born out of our learning history.

Written By

Chance Bleu-Montgomery