Garrett Morgan was an African American inventor and businessman, best known for creating the first successful traffic signal. Born in 1877, he developed this important device to help manage the flow of vehicles and pedestrians, making roads safer for everyone. His invention was patented in 1923 and later influenced modern traffic lights. In addition to the traffic signal, Morgan also invented a smoke hood, an early version of a gas mask. This device was used by firefighters and helped save lives during emergencies. Morgan's contributions to safety and innovation have left a lasting impact on society, showcasing his remarkable talent and creativity.