tell me the hardships garrett morgan faced
Garrett Morgan faced several hardships throughout his life, particularly due to racism and discrimination prevalent during his time. Here are some of the hardships he encountered:
1. Limited opportunities: As an African American, Morgan faced limited opportunities for education and employment. Racial segregation and discrimination prevented him from accessing the same opportunities as his white counterparts.
2. Discrimination in business: Morgan owned a sewing machine repair business in Cleveland, Ohio, but faced difficulties in expanding due to racial biases. White customers often refused to have their machines repaired by him solely based on his race.
3. Struggles in inventing: Despite being a highly innovative and creative person, Morgan faced challenges in gaining recognition for his inventions. It was more difficult for African Americans to obtain patents and gain attention for their work during that era.
4. Challenging a stereotype with the gas mask invention: One of Morgan's major inventions was the smoke hood, later known as the gas mask. However, as a black inventor, it was initially difficult for him to get people to take his invention seriously and recognize its importance.
5. Facing danger during rescue operations: Morgan's gas mask invention gained significant attention after he and his brother used it during a rescue operation in 1916. They saved workers trapped in a tunnel explosion, but Morgan and his brother risked their lives while wearing the untested gas masks, facing personal danger and uncertainty.
Despite these hardships, Morgan persevered and made notable contributions to society through his inventions and innovations. He remained dedicated to his work and continued to challenge racial barriers throughout his life.