On April 23, 1856, Granville T. Woods was born in Columbus, Ohio. Often called “The Black Edison,” Woods would go on to become one of the most prolific Black inventors in American history, securing over 35 patents during his lifetime. His groundbreaking innovations included a steam boiler furnace, a telephone transmitter, an egg incubator, and the automatic air brake used in rail systems — a contribution that greatly improved railway safety and efficiency. Despite facing systemic racism, Woods often defended his patents in court and won, establishing his legacy as a brilliant engineer whose ideas shaped modern transportation and communication.
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