The invention of the traffic light is credited to Garrett Morgan, an African American inventor and entrepreneur. In 1923, Morgan patented his version of the traffic signal, which featured a "yield" position to allow vehicles to clear the intersection before the light turned green. Morgan's traffic signal also included a warning light to alert drivers before the signal changed.

Morgan's invention improved upon the existing traffic signals at the time and laid the foundation for the modern traffic lights that we use today. His innovative design helped to improve road safety and traffic flow, making significant contributions to transportation technology.

Garrett Morgan was a prolific inventor who also developed other important creations, including the safety hood, a precursor to the gas mask that was widely used during World War I. His contributions to technology and safety have had a lasting impact, highlighting the important role that African American inventors have played in shaping our world.