12 African American Female Inventors Who Changed the World
When it comes to innovation, African American female inventors have been shaping the world quietly—but powerfully—for centuries. Yet let’s be honest: how many times did history class make it seem like our contributions stopped at one or two familiar names?
The truth is, Black women have always been main-character innovators—building life-changing technology while navigating systems that were never designed for them to win. From home security systems and modern heating to fiber optics and GPS, their brilliance is woven into our everyday lives.
This guide highlights 12 African American women inventors whose work transformed safety, healthcare, technology, and daily comfort. This isn’t just a history lesson—it’s a reminder that innovation lives in our lineage.
At-A-Glance: Innovation & Impact
Why Centering African American Women Inventors Matters
Learning about African American female inventors isn’t just educational—it’s transformational. Representation rewires belief. When we see ourselves as creators and problem-solvers, we stop asking for permission and start building our own tables.
For generations, these stories were buried under systemic bias, patent denial, and historical erasure. But in 2026 and beyond, we are reclaiming the narrative. These women didn’t “experiment” for fun—they solved real global problems using genius, grit, and vision.
Real Talk: For years, I thought innovation had one face—and it didn’t look like me. I knew George Washington Carver and the peanut, but I had no idea a Black woman helped invent home heating or GPS navigation. Once I started learning our real history, I realized something powerful: innovation is our second language.
1. Marie Van Brittan Brown (The Protector)
In 1966, long before smart doorbells and surveillance apps, Marie Van Brittan Brown, a nurse living in Queens, New York, wanted one simple thing: safety.
At a time when police response was unreliable in her neighborhood, she designed the first home security system, complete with a camera, video monitors, peepholes, and a two-way microphone. Her invention laid the foundation for modern CCTV systems and today’s smart home security technology.
Every time you check a doorbell camera or security feed, you’re witnessing her legacy in action.
2. Dr. Patricia Bath
n 1986, Dr. Patricia Bath became the first Black woman doctor to receive a medical patent. Her invention—the Laserphaco Probe—revolutionized cataract surgery by using laser technology to restore vision safely and effectively.
Dr. Bath didn’t just innovate; she democratized healthcare. Her work made advanced eye treatment accessible worldwide, restoring sight to millions who would have otherwise lived in darkness.
She didn’t just help people see—she changed how the medical world approached equity in care.
3. Alice H. Parker
In 1919, Alice H. Parker filed a patent for a natural gas-powered central heating system, transforming how homes were warmed.
Before her invention, families relied on fireplaces and coal stoves—inefficient, unsafe, and labor-intensive. Parker’s design introduced the concept of distributing heat evenly throughout a home, shaping the systems we still rely on today.
Your warm living room on a winter night? That comfort traces directly back to her brilliance.
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4. Dr. Shirley Jackson
If you’re reading this on a smartphone or using high-speed internet, you can thank Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson.
In the 1970s, she became the first Black woman to earn a PhD from MIT. Her groundbreaking research in telecommunications led to innovations behind fiber-optic cables, touch-tone telephones, caller ID, and portable fax machines.
Modern communication—texting, browsing, streaming—rests on the foundation she helped build.
5. Sarah Boone
In 1892, Sarah Boone improved the ironing board. Her design was narrow and curved, specifically shaped to iron sleeves and fitted garments without creating wrinkles.
Thanks to her innovation, our “Boss Lady” suits, crisp dresses, and professional wear are easier to maintain. She didn’t just make ironing convenient—she empowered women to present themselves with confidence.
6. Lyda Newman
In 1892, Sarah Boone improved the ironing board. Her design was narrow and curved, specifically shaped to iron sleeves and fitted garments without creating wrinkles.
Thanks to her innovation, our “Boss Lady” suits, crisp dresses, and professional wear are easier to maintain. She didn’t just make ironing convenient—she empowered women to present themselves with confidence.
Related Blog Post: 20+ Best Black History Books for Kids
7. Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner
Mary Kenner holds the record for the most patents by a Black woman. Her inventions included:
- The sanitary belt (early version of the modern maxi pad)
- A tissue holder
- A back washer for the shower
Despite facing extreme racial discrimination that delayed the commercialization of her inventions, she never stopped creating. Her brilliance solved problems we often take for granted today.
8. Madam C.J. Walker
Known as the first self-made female millionaire in the U.S., Walker was more than a business mogul—she was an inventor. She developed the “Walker System” of haircare products, improving chemical formulas for Black hair health.
Walker showed that beauty could be serious business, merging entrepreneurship, science, and cultural pride.
9. Gladys West
Every time you pull out Google Maps or Waze, Gladys West deserves your gratitude. Her advanced mathematical modeling of the Earth’s shape enabled the development of GPS technology.
West’s work proves that precision math and determination can literally put the world in your hands—literally guiding you to your brunch spot, your meeting, or your family gathering.
Related Blog Post: 8 Empowering Gifts for the Strong Woman in Your Life
10. Bessie Blount Griffin
Bessie Blount Griffin combined medicine, innovation, and service. As a physical therapist, she invented a device that allowed amputees to feed themselves, restoring autonomy to injured soldiers. Later, she became the first Black woman forensic scientist at Scotland Yard.
Her inventions weren’t just tools—they were keys to dignity and independence.
11. Valerie Thomas
At NASA in 1980, Valerie Thomas invented the Illusion Transmitter, a technology that allows 3D images to be projected across distances.
This innovation laid the groundwork for:
- 3D movies
- Medical imaging
- Virtual modeling systems
Her work reminds us that Black women have been at the forefront of cutting-edge science for decades.
12. Janet Emerson Bashen
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Janet Emerson Bashen was the first Black woman to hold a patent for a software invention. Her creation, LinkLine, manages Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) claims for companies—helping businesses ensure fairness and compliance.
Bashen’s work underscores that innovation isn’t limited to labs—it’s about using technology to create equitable systems in society.
FAQ: Why Their Stories Matter Now
Q: Why were many African american inventors female pioneers not mentioned in textbooks? A: Due to "Symbolic Annihilation" and systemic bias, many Black women were denied patents or had their work credited to others. In 2026, we are finally unearthing these records to give them their flowers.
Q: Where can I learn more about Black women in STEM? A: The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture has incredible digital exhibits. Also, checking out Best African American Children’s Books by Black Authors is a great way to find biographies.
Q: How can I encourage the "inventor" spirit in my daughter? A: Focus on problem-solving. When she sees a problem, ask her, "How would you build something to fix this?" Providing books with characters that look like her is also key.
Final Thoughts: The Legacy is in You
These African American female inventors weren’t just brilliant—they were persistent, visionary, and fearless. They saw gaps, solved problems, and changed the world without waiting for permission.
Next time you use your GPS, iron a shirt, feel safe at home, or enjoy modern haircare, remember the women behind it all. Their legacy isn’t just history—it’s a blueprint for your own creativity and impact.
Which of these inventors surprised you the most? Comment below—I want to hear who inspired your next big idea.