Dear Friends,



Please join us in celebrating Black History Month.

As we commemorate Black History Month, it is paramount to reflect on the extraordinary contributions of Black Americans who have profoundly shaped our world through inventive prowess. From the inception of American history to the present, Black Americans have played a pivotal role in influencing technology, science, and everyday life.

The pioneering work of George Washington Carver stands as an example of the brilliance of Black inventors. Carver's agricultural research revolutionized farming practices, introducing concepts like crop rotation and advocating for alternative crops to improve soil fertility.

Dr. Patricia Bath, a groundbreaking ophthalmologist and the inventor of the Laserphaco Probe redefined cataract surgery by making it more precise and less invasive.

Mark Dean, a luminary in computer technology, significantly contributed to the development of the personal computer. His architecture and hardware design innovations have left an indelible mark, shaping the computing systems and devices that have become integral to our daily lives.

Lonnie G. Johnson, an aerospace engineer and inventor, brought joy to countless individuals through his Super Soaker water gun creation. Johnson's invention brought fun and exemplified the fusion of entertainment and engineering excellence, inspiring future generations to pursue careers in STEM fields.

Reflecting on a small list of inventions by Black Americans:

1. Garrett Morgan invented the three-position traffic signal.
2. Dr. Charles Drew pioneered techniques for blood storage and transfusion.
3. Frederick McKinley Jones invented the truck refrigeration system.
4. Sarah Goode, the first African American woman to receive a U.S. patent, designed a space-saving folding cabinet bed.
5. Otis Boykin improved the pacemaker by inventing a control unit.
6. Valerie Thomas patented a three-dimensional illusion device.
7. Marie Van Brittan Brown invented the precursor to modern home security systems.
8. Dr. Shirley Jackson contributed to the invention of the portable fax machine.
9. Dr. Henry T. Sampson co-invented the gamma-electric cell, a key component in cellular technology.
10. Lewis Howard Latimer was crucial in developing the carbon filament used in light bulbs.
11. Thomas J. Martin patented an early version of the fire extinguisher.
12. Sarah Boone improved the design of the ironing board.
13. Garrett Morgan invented an early version of the gearliersk.
14. John Standard patented an improvement to the refrigerator.
15. Alexander Miles improved elevator safety with automatic doors.
16. Lydia O. Newman invented an improved hairbrush.
17. Lloyd P. Ray revolutionized the design of the dustpan.
18. George Crum is credited with the invention of the potato chip.
19. Richard B. Spikes patented an automatic gear shift mechanism.
20. Dr. Thomas Mensah contributed to the development of fiber optic cable technology.
21. Dr. Mark Dean played a vital role in developing the personal computer and keyboard.
22. Jan Ernst Matzeliger revolutionized shoe manufacturing with the automatic shoe-lasting machine.
23. William H. Richardson patented an improvement to the reversible baby stroller.
24. Dr. Patricia Bath invented a device for cataract surgery, the Cataract Laserphaco Probe.

As we celebrate Black History Month, let us pay homage to these pioneers and countless others who, against all odds, have significantly shaped science, technology, medicine, and beyond. Their inventions improved our world and laid the foundation for a more inclusive and diverse future. May their stories inspire us to champion innovation and equality for all relentlessly.

Sincerely,

Bill Tinglin

Chairman & President

Center for Black Learning

T: 732 - 370 - 3344

E: [email protected]