Garrett Augustus Morgan was born on March 4, 1877, in Paris, Kentucky. He was the seventh of eleven children born to former slaves. Growing up in a segregated society, Morgan faced many challenges, but he was determined to make a better life for himself.
Despite limited educational opportunities for African Americans at the time, Morgan was determined to educate himself. He hired a tutor with the wages he earned as a handyman for a wealthy Cincinnati landowner. This dedication to learning laid the foundation for his future success as an inventor.
One of Morgan's most notable inventions was the three-position traffic signal, which he patented in 1923. This traffic signal was a significant improvement over existing models, as it included a warning light to alert drivers before the signal changed. His invention helped make roads safer for motorists and pedestrians alike.
In addition to the traffic signal, Morgan also invented one of the first gas masks, which he called a Safety Hood. This invention proved invaluable in 1916 when Morgan and three others used the safety hood device to rescue workers trapped in a water intake tunnel under Lake Erie after a natural gas explosion and fire. Their heroic efforts saved numerous lives and demonstrated the life-saving potential of Morgan's inventions.
In 1908, Morgan married his second wife, Mary Anne Hassek, with whom he had three children. Despite facing discrimination and adversity, Morgan was able to build a loving family and provide for his loved ones through his innovative work.
Garrett Morgan's groundbreaking inventions and contributions have had a lasting impact on society. He was a trailblazer in the field of traffic safety and public health, and his work continues to be celebrated today. In 2002, he was honored in Molefi Kete Asante's book of 100 Greatest African Americans alongside other influential figures like George Washington Carver.
Garrett Morgan's life story is one of determination, ingenuity, and resilience. Despite facing numerous obstacles, he was able to overcome adversity and leave a lasting legacy through his groundbreaking inventions. His contributions to traffic safety and public health have had a profound impact on society, and his pioneering spirit continues to inspire generations of inventors and innovators today.