The Remarkable Life of Garrett Morgan and His Trailblazing Inventions

Garrett Augustus Morgan (1877–1963) was more than an inventor—he was a visionary who revolutionized public safety, industry, and civil rights. Born in Claysville, Kentucky, to formerly enslaved parents, Morgan’s early life was marked by limited educational opportunities. Despite this, his determination and mechanical skills propelled him into a career of groundbreaking innovations that would save lives and advance African American rights.

A Trailblazing Inventor

Morgan’s most famous invention was the three-position traffic signal, patented in 1923. After witnessing a horrific car accident at a Cleveland intersection, he designed a manually operated signal that introduced a "caution" phase between "stop" and "go." His innovation reduced collisions and laid the foundation for modern traffic lights. General Electric later purchased the patent, helping to standardize traffic control across the country.

Another life-saving invention was the safety hood, an early version of the gas mask. Originally developed to protect firefighters from smoke inhalation, it gained national recognition in 1916 when Morgan personally used it to rescue trapped workers from the deadly Cleveland Tunnel Explosion. However, due to racism, he often had to employ white actors to demonstrate his invention, as companies were reluctant to buy from a Black man. Despite these challenges, his mask was eventually adopted by fire departments and the U.S. military during World War I.

Morgan also developed a hair-straightening solution, which led to the establishment of the G.A. Morgan Hair Refining Company, a successful business that gave him financial independence. His success in entrepreneurship provided him with the means to advocate for African American rights..

Activism and the Fight for Civil Rights

Beyond his technical achievements, Morgan was a tireless advocate for civil rights and Black economic empowerment. In 1916, he founded the Cleveland Call, one of the first Black newspapers in the city, to amplify African American voices and shed light on racial injustices. The paper later became the Call & Post, a leading publication in the fight for racial equality.

Morgan was also deeply involved in community-building efforts. He supported Black-owned businesses, fought for African American employment opportunities, and became a key figure in the NAACP, pushing for desegregation and equal rights. At a time when discrimination was rampant, he used his wealth and influence to challenge systemic racism and uplift his community.

A Legacy of Innovation and Advocacy

Despite the racial barriers he faced, Garrett Morgan’s contributions reshaped modern society. His inventions continue to impact public safety, and his dedication to civil rights paved the way for future generations. He not only saved lives with his innovations but also empowered African Americans by demonstrating the power of entrepreneurship, resilience, and activism. Today, his legacy stands as a testament to the importance of innovation and social justice working hand in hand.