Slide 1: Lewis Latimer (Inventor, Engineer) – The Lightbulb Component
Who the person is: Lewis Latimer was an inventor and engineer who worked with Thomas Edison and improved electric lighting.
What they invented: Latimer improved the carbon filament used in light bulbs, making them longer-lasting and more practical for everyday use.
How the invention is used: The longer-lasting filament made electric lights more reliable in homes and workplaces, helping to illuminate cities.
Benefit of the invention: Safer, longer-lasting light bulbs reduced maintenance costs and made electric lighting affordable for more people.
Slide 2: Garrett Morgan (Inventor) – The Traffic Signal and Safety Hood
Who the person is: Garrett Morgan was an inventor and businessman who created devices to improve public safety.
What they invented: He invented an early traffic signal and a safety hood (an early gas mask) used by rescue workers.
How the invention is used: The traffic signal helps regulate road traffic; the safety hood protects workers from inhaling dangerous fumes.
Benefit of the invention: Safer streets and better protection for firefighters and other responders in hazardous environments.
Slide 3: Madam C.J. Walker (Entrepreneur, Inventor) – Hair Care Products
Who the person is: Madame C.J. Walker was an American entrepreneur and inventor who built a successful line of African-American hair care products.
What they invented: She developed a range of hair care formulas and products tailored to the needs of Black women.
How the invention is used: The products are used to cleanse, moisturize, and style hair, promoting scalp health and beauty routines.
Benefit of the invention: Created economic opportunities, fostered entrepreneurship, and provided accessible hair care solutions for a community.
Slide 4: George Washington Carver (Agricultural Scientist) – Peanut-Based Products
Who the person is: George Washington Carver was a scientist and educator who studied crops and farming methods.
What they invented: He developed hundreds of uses for peanuts and other crops, including peanut butter, oils, and various products.
How the invention is used: Peanuts and related products are used in food, cooking, and manufacturing, expanding crop options for farmers.
Benefit of the invention: Diversified farming income, reduced soil depletion through crop rotation ideas, and expanded nutrition options for people.
Slide 5: Dr. Patricia Bath (Ophthalmologist) – Laser Treatment for Eye Care
Who the person is: Dr. Patricia Bath was a pioneering ophthalmologist and inventor/educator.
What they invented: She invented a device and method for cataract treatment using laser therapy and pioneered community eye care initiatives.
How the invention is used: Laser-assisted cataract treatment improves vision by removing cataracts more precisely and safely.
Benefit of the invention: Restores sight for many patients, enhances access to eye care, and advances medical technology and equity in health care.