(AURN News) — On this day, March 4, 1877, Garrett Augustus Morgan was born in Paris, Kentucky.
The son of a formerly enslaved mother, Morgan would become one of the most influential Black inventors in American history.
After moving to Cleveland in 1895, he worked repairing sewing machines and began developing inventions that would change everyday life.
Morgan is best known for creating an early three-position traffic signal and a safety hood gas mask that helped save workers trapped in a smoke-filled tunnel during a 1916 rescue.
He also built a successful business empire, including the G.A. Morgan Hair Refining Company, after discovering a hair-straightening formula.
Beyond business, Morgan helped found the Cleveland Call newspaper, which later became the Call & Post.
Morgan died in 1963 at age 86, leaving a legacy of innovation and ingenuity.
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