Since Women’s History Month is coming to an end, I thought it might be interesting to look into objects that many of us use on a regular basis that we have women to thank for. Read on for a list of inventions that were brought to us by some of the most brilliant women.
1. Computer Programs
Ada Lovelace wrote the first computer program in the 1800s: decades before the first modern computer was made.
2. Automatic Dishwashers
Josephine Cochrane invented the first automatic dishwasher in the 1800s.
3. Windshield Wiper Blades
Mary Anderson is responsible for designing the first windshield wiper blades in 1902.
4. Coffee Filters
Melitta Bentz invented the first coffee filter for drip brewing in 1908.
5. Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ruth Graves Wakefield was responsible for creating the recipe for chocolate chip cookies in 1938.
6. The Precursor to Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth
Hedy Lamarr was an actress who developed a secret communication system for the military during WWII that later became the foundation for modern Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth.
7. Home Security Systems
Marie Van Brittan Brown designed the first home security system in the 1960s.
8. Ice Cream Makers
Nancy Johnson patented the first ice cream maker in 1843.
9. White-Out
Bette Nesmith Graham created the first correction fluid, which she called “Liquid Paper,” in the 1950s.
10. Bras
Caresse Crosby designed the modern bra that took the place of corsets in the 1910s.
Happy Women’s History Month and HCXO,
Rachel