The colored inventor : $b a record of fifty years

"The Colored Inventor: A Record of Fifty Years" by Henry E. Baker is a detailed chronicle from the turn of the 20th century that shines a light on the often-overlooked achievements of African American inventors in the fifty years after slavery ended. Baker's purpose is to challenge the widespread prejudices of the time by showcasing the vital contributions of Black inventors to American progress, despite the significant racial barriers they faced. In this work, Baker carefully examines the lives and successes of many African American inventors, highlighting their patents and inventions that have had a large influence on fields like farming, mechanics, and electrical work. He puts a spotlight on figures like Granville T. Woods, famous for his creations in electrical systems, and Elijah McCoy, known for his groundbreaking lubrication inventions. This book argues that Black Americans' creativity and hard work have been essential to America's industrial development, and it calls for these contributions to be recognized and valued to encourage future innovation and correct the record of American innovation.