While many are familiar with the names of Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks, few are aware of Garrett Morgan, whose quiet determination paved the way for change. 

Morgan was born on March 4, 1877, in Paris, Kentucky. Morgan was one of 11 children in his family. As a teenager, Morgan was known for being able to fix anything. After 6th grade, Morgan started a handyman job, where he discovered an interest in fixing sewing machines, which later inspired his inventing career.

Morgan called himself the “black Edison,” as he designed three inventions that have changed the world for the better. Morgan developed the three-position traffic signal, a gas mask hood, and hair-strengthening products, which have reached their highest point of popularity yet.

Apart from his inventing career, Morgan was an advocate for African American communities. He was a member of the NAACP, was active in the Cleveland Association of Colored Men, donated to black colleges, and opened an all-black country club. Furthermore, Morgan launched an African American newspaper called The Call and Post. In July of 1963, the noble black inventor passed away at the age of 86.

Morgan demonstrated his legacy in society by catalyzing his way into the world of inventing. In honor of Black History Month, honor those individuals who are underrepresented in history and continue to address the unheard voices.

 “If you can be the best, then why not try to be the best?” Morgan said in response to his desire to become an inventor.