Celebrating inventors during Black History Month

Each morning, we wake up hoping to have a safe and productive day. There are many inventions that help us accomplish that goal. Driving into work each morning, traffic lights keep us and other drivers safe on the roads. We may take the elevator up to our floor to begin our day of contributing to the City of Boston workforce. Walking into our offices, we turn on the lights, start our computers, and begin our work.

Many of us have never stopped to think about the inventors who’s innovation, intelligence, and drive led to these important everyday items. Black inventors are responsible for all of these valuable inventions:

Born in Kentucky in 1877, Morgan is the inventor of something many rely on each day: the traffic signal. He created this after witnessing so many accidents on busy urban intersections. In addition to this, he created the gas mask, which grew in popularity when it was used to aid workers after an underground explosion.

Known as “the wealthiest colored man in the Northwest,” Miles created an automatic device to open and close elevator doors. Because of his invention, we are able to enjoy this modern luxury.

Born in 1848 to runaway slaves, Latimer became an inventor and engineer. In addition to his invention of one of the earliest air conditioning units, he assisted in the development of some of the world’s most important inventions, including the light bulb and the telephone.

Emeagwali was born in Nigeria in 1954. Although he came of age during a brutal civil war, he earned many advanced degrees, including a Ph.D. in scientific computing. In 1989, he created the world’s fastest computer.

Here at the City of Boston EAP, we are celebrating Black History Month this February. We recognize and acknowledge the value that diversity brings to our workforce, not only this month, but all throughout the year. Discussing these topics in the workplace is so important. By talking about diversity, we are all learning and growing, and the City of Boston is a thriving, safe place for all.

Learn more about Black History Month.