Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Wicked Wednesday Week 4 "Black History Month"

First, let me apologize for not posting a Wicked Wednesday last Wednesday. Was having technical difficulties.
February is Black History Month. Americans have recognized black history month since 1926. Black Americans have been part of America since the colony, they didn't get a respectable presence in history until the 20th century. Today, I will take a look at contributions made by blacks that allow us to live a comfortable life.

Garret Morgan invented a 3-way automatic traffic sign which paved the way for the 3-light traffic sign. We have all been in the traffic jam when one of these breaks.
James West research in sound technology led to the development of foil-electret transducers used in 90% of all microphones built today and in most new telephones being manufactured.
Thomas Martin patened the fire extinguisher in 1872. On of these came in handy when I accidentally set my
fence on fire.
Jan Ernst Matzeliger invented the Shoe Lasting Machine, which connected the upper part of the shoe to the sole. Every shoe lover should pay homage Jan.
Joseph Lee invented a bread making machine that mixed the ingredients and kneaded the dough in 1895. A bread machine in the 1800's? Who knew.
L P Ray invented the dust pan in 1897. How many of you remember using an album cover? Or maybe that's a hood thing.
When I was in school, Feburary was the only month we learned about Black History. My hope, wish and goal is that Black History becomes a permanent part of American History, not just mentioned in the shortest month of the year. Thanks for sharing. Leave a comment about your favorite black history memory or invention.

7 comments:

  1. Great article!! I love the way you tie things in together! You should do a newsletter. We would enjoy reading it. Thanks Joycelyn. Check out our web page and blog when you have a chance, to see more of our work at www.zatsart.com we will keep in touch, you do the same! Hope to see a regular newsletter from you soon!!--Lee and Carol @ artworksbycarol on etsy.

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  3. thanks Makayla
    I loved reading this article
    there are so many things I did'nt know and seeing them here attached o this images of handmade products made it even more interesting.
    I feel honored that you chose my shoes as an example
    god Bless you
    Nora
    www.norakaren.com

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  4. per Mostly Vintage....

    thanks for featuring my item.

    When I was in school we didn't learn ANY black history. I can't tell you how shocked I was when I became an adult to find out that so many black people had done SO much. I was furious with the school system and people for omitting so many important parts of our history.

    It has taken a long time but the truth always comes out doesn't it? :)

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  5. Thanks Carol and Lee. Believe it or not, writing is not my thing. I just say what comes to mind, which sometimes is not a good thing. Glad you enjoyed the article. More to come.

    @Nora, thanks for letting me use an image. Doing research for this post, I was amazed at how may of todays "conveniences" began with a black person. Really eye opening.

    @ Brandy, yes the truth always come out, in time.

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  6. I don't think it is a hood thing; I grew up an Air Force brat and even though we had a dustpan I saw my mom use all sorts of things when she couldn't find it.

    Great post!

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