The invention of the traffic light is credited to Garrett Morgan, an African-American inventor and entrepreneur. In 1923, Morgan patented an automatic signaling device for street intersections which would eventually become the basis for modern traffic lights.

Morgan's traffic signal was a hand-cranked mechanical device with three positions – stop, go, and an all-way stop position to allow for crossing traffic. The signal was mounted on a T-shaped pole and featured a warning light to alert drivers before the signal changed. This innovation helped improve traffic safety and efficiency, reducing the frequency of accidents at intersections.

Garrett Morgan's contribution to traffic management not only revolutionized urban transportation but also made streets safer for both drivers and pedestrians. His invention laid the foundation for the development of the modern traffic light systems that are used worldwide today.