Black Inventions

1. Lonnie G. Johnson, an aerospace engineer, invented the Super Soaker water gun in 1982. It became one of the most popular toys in the world.
3. John Purdy, an African American inventor, patented the first folding chair in 1888. His design was lightweight and portable, making it convenient for outdoor events.
4. Jesse Eugene Russell, an electrical engineer, is credited with inventing the digital cellular base station and the mobile communication system.
7. Frederick McKinley Jones, an inventor and entrepreneur, developed the first practical refrigerated truck in 1940. This innovation revolutionized the transportation of perishable goods.
9. Sarah Boone, an African American inventor, patented an improved ironing board design in 1892. Her design featured a narrower, curved shape, allowing for easier ironing of sleeves and other curved garments.
10. Dr. Charles Drew, an African American physician, pioneered techniques for blood storage and transfusion during World War II. His work laid the foundation for the modern blood bank system.

2. John Lee Love, an African American inventor, patented the portable pencil sharpener in 1897. His design allowed for easy sharpening of pencils on the go.
5. George Crum, an African American chef, is credited with inventing the potato chip in the 1850s. Legend has it that he created the thin, crispy snack in response to a customer's complaint about thick, soggy fries.
6. Garrett Morgan, an African American inventor, patented the three-position traffic signal in 1923. His design included automated traffic signals with "stop" and "go" signals.
8. Philip B. Downing, an African American inventor, patented an improved version of the street letter box in 1891. His design included a hinged door at the top for easy mail collection.