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technology

Born this day in 1877, Garrett Morgan was the mind behind several inventions that still play a role in our daily lives. However, as a Black man living in the USA during the turn of the 19th century, he faced considerable racism and discrimination throughout his life.

When Alexander Graham Bell first presented his telephone to audiences in the late 1800s, he made an interesting proposition. Bell suggested that this “talking telegraph” (the telephone) might be used for something other than transmitting and receiving messages. He suggested this invention could one day be used for something far more important – fun.

Flushing toilets are a staple of our modern lives, but what we now take for granted is still a relatively new technological innovation. Assistant Curator Kerry Grist explores their fascinating history.