Black History Month: Contemporary African-American Inventors

February is Black History Month. The contributions of Black Americans can be found in all facets of our nation's past, including the field of inventing. Many schoolchildren are familiar with famous 19th- and early 20th-century African-American inventors like George Washington Carver and Elijah McCoy. However, most people are unaware of significant contributions by African-Americans in our country's more recent past.

Read more about contemporary African-American inventors

INPEX® Exhibitors Attend ERA Invention Showcase

Last June, the Electronic Retailing Association (ERA) launched a program called "Celebrating America's Inventiveness" at INPEX® 2005 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. As a part of that program, the ERA selected 20 INPEX® exhibitors to attend the 2005 Invention Showcase, where TV marketing professionals offered feedback on the inventors' product ideas.

Read more about the 2005 Invention Showcase

Who was the first African-American woman to receive a patent?

Sarah Goode, owner of a Chicago furniture store, received a patent on July 14, 1885, making her the first African American woman to accomplish this feat. She invented a folding cabinet bed to help individuals maximize a small living space. The invention resembled a desk and included compartments for stationery and writing implements.

Read more invention trivia from InventHelp®