Who was Lewis Howard Latimer? - Presentation

Lewis Howard Latimer was a pioneering figure in the world of engineering and invention, whose contributions had a significant impact on the development of key technologies. Born in 1848 in Boston, Massachusetts, to parents who were former slaves, Latimer enlisted in the Navy at the age of 16 to fight for the Northern forces during the Civil War. He later worked for a law firm that specialised in patents, where he taught himself drafting and became chief draftsman. His expertise in drafting led to his involvement with Alexander Graham Bell in 1876, where he helped Bell to secure a patent for the first working telephone by preparing the necessary drawings.

Latimer's influence extended to the field of electric lighting, where he made a groundbreaking invention in 1881 by patenting the carbon filament—a key component that significantly improved the longevity of light bulbs. This invention was vital in advancing Thomas Edison's light bulb to the more durable version we are familiar with today. Latimer's contributions to science and technology were not limited to his inventions; he also authored the first book on electric lighting in 1890. His life and work are celebrated as part of the rich history of influential black individuals who have helped shape our modern world.