Garrett Morgan

Garrett Morgan was an African American inventor and entrepreneur best known for inventing the modern traffic light and a life-saving gas mask. His inventions had a huge impact on public safety and are still used in modern forms today.

Early Life and Background

Garrett Augustus Morgan was born on March 4, 1877, in Paris, Kentucky, USA. He had little formal education and left school at a young age to work as a handyman.

Despite this, Morgan was naturally curious and taught himself about mechanics and engineering, which led to several groundbreaking inventions.

The Traffic Light Invention

Before Morgan’s invention, traffic signals were not standardized, leading to frequent accidents.

After witnessing a terrible car crash, he invented a three-position traffic signal in 1923, which:

• Introduced the yellow warning light to prevent accidents.
• Allowed for a pause between stop and go, making roads safer.
• Became the basis for modern traffic lights used worldwide.

Morgan later sold the patent to General Electric for $40,000, a huge sum at the time.

The Gas Mask Invention

In 1914, Morgan invented the safety hood, an early version of the modern gas mask.

• It filtered smoke and toxic gases, allowing firefighters and rescue workers to breathe safely.
• It was widely used during World War I to protect soldiers from chemical attacks.
• It became a standard safety device for emergency workers and miners.

Morgan’s gas mask was famously used in 1916 during the Cleveland Tunnel Disaster, where he personally led a rescue mission, saving several lives.

Other Inventions and Achievements

Morgan was a true innovator and also invented:

• A hair straightening cream, which led to a successful hair care business.
• An early sewing machine improvement, making clothing production faster.

As a Black inventor in a racially segregated America, Morgan often had to market his inventions carefully, but his impact was undeniable.

Recognition and Legacy

Although he faced racial barriers, Morgan’s work is now widely celebrated. He was honored with:

• The National Inventors Hall of Fame induction.
• Recognition by the U.S. government for his traffic signal.
• His birthday, March 4, being declared Garrett Morgan Day in Cleveland, Ohio.

He passed away on July 27, 1963, but his inventions continue to save lives every day.

Conclusion

Garrett Morgan’s traffic light and gas mask changed the world. His brilliance, determination, and problem-solving skills made everyday life safer for millions of people, proving that one person’s ideas can shape the future.