Black History Month: Cassidy's Creative Corner - Black Achievements (Part 2)

To me, and so many others, the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement is important. The BLM movement fights for Black people and highlights the changes that needed to be made long ago. In my last column, I focused on Black achievements and will do so again today. Below are more people who have changed history. 

Potato Chips 
In 1853, George Crum created potato chips while working at a resort in Saratoga Springs, NY.

The Gas Mask
In 1912, Garrett Morgan created the gas mask, saving thousands of soldiers' lives during World War I. Morgan also created the modern traffic signal. 

Prima Ballerina 
In 1951, Janet Collins became the first Black prima ballerina. Collins was recruited by the New York's Metropolitan Opera. 

American Stock Exchange   
In 1971, the Johnson Products Company became the first black-owned business on the American Stock Exchange. They also became the first Black company to sponsor a nationally syndicated television show (Soul Train). 

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In 1987, Aretha Franklin became the first woman to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. 

The Opera 
In 1946, Camila Williams became the first Black woman to secure a leading role with a major American opera. 

Blood Bank
Before Dr. Charles Drew invented a technique for the long-term preservation of blood plasma, blood could only be stored for two days. Charles also discovered that everyone has the same type of plasma, regardless of their blood type. 

Olympic Gold Medalist 
In 1948, Alice Coachman became the first Black woman to win an Olympic gold medal at the 1948 Summer Olympics in London. She won the medal in track and field.