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What obstacles did Garrett Morgan overcome?
Along with many others, Morgan lost most of his wealth with the stock market crash, but it didn’t stop his inventive nature. He developed glaucoma, but at the time of his death he was still working on a new invention: a self-extinguishing cigarette. Morgan died on August 27, 1963, at the age of 86.
What was Garrett Morgan’s greatest accomplishment?
He went on to patent several inventions, including an improved sewing machine and traffic signal, a hair-straightening product, and a respiratory device that would later provide the blueprint for WWI gas masks. The inventor died on July 27, 1963, in Cleveland, Ohio.
What was the impact of Garrett Morgan?
The African American inventor of a life-saving device, mechanical traffic signals, and more had to fight for recognition. Garrett Morgan’s safety hood saved the lives of countless firefighters and others. He was born in Kentucky during the Reconstruction era, in 1877.
How did Garrett Morgan make the traffic light?
The signal Morgan patented was a T-shaped pole with three settings. At night, when traffic was light, it could be set at half-mast (like a blinking yellow light today), warning drivers to proceed carefully through the intersection. He sold the rights to his invention to General Electric for $40,000.
Why did Garret Morgan invent the traffic light?
He invented the three position traffic signal. After witnessing an accident on a roadway, Morgan decided a device was needed to keep cars, buggies and pedestrians from colliding. His traffic signal was designed to stand on a street corner and notify vehicles and walkers whether they should stop or go.
How many lives did Garrett Morgan save?
two lives
Someone knew about Morgan’s safety hood and called him in. He and his brother suited up and repeatedly went into the tunnel. They saved two lives and recovered four bodies before officials closed the tunnel to rescue efforts.
Did Garrett Morgan go to college?
At Cleveland’s Western Reserve University, he organized a fraternity of black students. One of his last goals in life was to be able to attend the Emancipation Centennial in Chicago, August 1963.