Let’s get one thing straight—Black ingenuity is woven into the fabric of our daily lives. From the moment you wake up to the time you go to bed, you’re likely using something that was either invented or improved by a Black person. And yet, history books don’t always give credit where it’s due. So, let’s change that. Here are 10 inventions by Black innovators that you probably use all the time (and may not have even realized were created because a Black person thought of it).
1. Automatic Elevator Doors – Alexander Miles
Before Alexander Miles’ invention, elevator users had to manually close the doors—yes, manually. That led to some pretty dangerous accidents. In 1887, he patented a mechanism for automatically opening and closing elevator doors, making the elevators we use today much safer.
2. The Super Soaker – Lonnie Johnson
The ultimate childhood summer weapon was created by none other than NASA engineer Lonnie Johnson. While working on a new cooling system, he accidentally developed the concept of the Super Soaker, which went on to become one of the best-selling toys of all time.
3. Caller ID & Call Waiting – Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson
Ever ignored a call because you knew it was spam? Or seamlessly switched between two conversations without hanging up on someone? You have physicist Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson to thank for that. Her groundbreaking research at Bell Labs in the 1970s and 1980s paved the way for some of the most essential telecommunications technology we rely on today, including caller ID and call waiting. Her work not only revolutionized the way we communicate but also laid the foundation for many modern phone innovations, making it easier to filter out unwanted calls and stay connected with the people who matter most. Without her contributions, dodging robocalls or juggling multiple conversations wouldn’t be nearly as effortless as it is today.
4. The Modern Home Security System – Marie Van Brittan Brown
Before Ring doorbells and security cameras, Marie Van Brittan Brown saw a need for better home security. In 1966, she designed the first closed-circuit security system, complete with cameras, a microphone, and remote-controlled locks. Sound familiar? That’s because today’s home security tech is based on her invention.
5. The Traffic Light – Garrett Morgan
Imagine driving through an intersection with no yellow light—just sudden stops and unpredictable moves. Chaotic, right? That was the reality before Garrett Morgan stepped in. In the early 1900s, he witnessed the dangers of the existing traffic system, which only had stop-and-go signals, leading to frequent accidents. Recognizing the need for a solution, Morgan designed and patented a three-light traffic system in 1923, introducing the yellow caution light to help drivers slow down before stopping. His invention significantly improved road safety, reducing collisions and making traffic flow more predictable. Today, his innovation remains a fundamental part of traffic management worldwide, proving that sometimes, one small addition can change everything.
6. The Folding Chair – Nathaniel Alexander
Church services, school assemblies, and big cookouts would not be the same without Nathaniel Alexander. He patented the first folding chair in 1911, making it easy to set up seating in large spaces (or for your aunt’s famous backyard BBQ).
7. The Pencil Sharpener – John Lee Love
Every student, writer, and artist has benefited from John Lee Love’s 1897 invention, though many may not realize it. Before his design, sharpening pencils was a messy, time-consuming task often done with knives or bulky mechanical sharpeners. Love’s innovation introduced a simple yet effective handheld sharpener that was compact, easy to use, and efficient—allowing for a precise point without the hassle. His design laid the foundation for the modern sharpeners we still rely on today, making it easier for people of all ages to create, write, and learn with ease. Whether you’re sketching a masterpiece, jotting down notes, or tackling a math problem, you’re carrying on the legacy of his ingenuity with every turn of the blade.
8. The Ice Cream Scooper – Alfred L. Cralle
Calling all ice cream lovers—this one’s for you! Next time you’re scooping up a dreamy, delicious bowl of your favorite flavor, you can thank Alfred L. Cralle. Back in 1897, he designed the first one-handed ice cream scoop, making it effortless to dish out perfectly round, Instagram-worthy scoops without all the drippy, sticky mess. His invention turned serving ice cream into a smooth and seamless experience, so whether you’re indulging in a sweet treat at home or grabbing a cone at your favorite shop, just know that your flawless scoop is all thanks to his genius!Â
9. The Mailbox – Philip B. Downing
Before Philip B. Downing’s invention in 1891, mailing a letter required going all the way to the post office. He created the street-side letter drop box, which made mailing letters much easier (and set the stage for the blue mailboxes we see today).
10. The Clothes Dryer – George T. Sampson
Before electric dryers, people had to rely on clotheslines no matter the weather. In 1892, George T. Sampson patented an early version of the modern dryer, helping families keep their clothes fresh and dry faster.
From everyday comforts to groundbreaking advancements that have saved lives, Black inventors have left an undeniable mark on history. Their brilliance has shaped the way we live, work, and interact with the world—often without the recognition they deserve. Whether it’s the convenience of caller ID, the practicality of a folding chair, or the simple joy of scooping ice cream with ease, these innovations wouldn’t exist without the creativity and ingenuity of Black minds. So, the next time you use a household essential or rely on a modern convenience, take a moment to appreciate the legacy behind it. Because more often than not, a Black person thought of it first.