Marie Van Brittan Brown

Definition

Marie Van Brittan Brown was an African American inventor who created the first home security system in the 1960s. Her innovative design included closed-circuit television and a system of cameras that allowed homeowners to see visitors before opening their doors, addressing safety concerns in her community and showcasing her ingenuity in a male-dominated field.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Marie Van Brittan Brown's security system included features like a sliding camera and a remote control for locking and unlocking doors, which were revolutionary at the time.
2. She filed for her patent in 1966, and it was granted in 1969, demonstrating her role as a pioneer in the intersection of technology and home safety.
3. Brown's invention addressed the high crime rates in her neighborhood, reflecting the broader social issues faced by African Americans in urban areas during the 1960s.
4. Her work has inspired future generations of inventors, particularly women and people of color, to pursue careers in technology and engineering.
5. Marie Van Brittan Brown is often overlooked in discussions about significant inventors, highlighting the need to recognize diverse contributions to technological advancements.

Review Questions

• How did Marie Van Brittan Brown's invention address the specific safety concerns of her community?
  • Marie Van Brittan Brown's invention directly addressed the high crime rates in her neighborhood by allowing homeowners to see who was at their door before answering it. This innovation gave residents a sense of security and control over their personal safety. By incorporating features like closed-circuit television and remote-controlled locking mechanisms, Brown created a practical solution that empowered her community and significantly enhanced home security.
• Discuss the impact of Marie Van Brittan Brown's work on future generations of inventors and its significance within the broader context of technological innovation.
  • Marie Van Brittan Brown's work laid the groundwork for modern home security systems, showcasing how innovation can arise from addressing community needs. Her success as an African American woman inventor challenged stereotypes and opened doors for future generations, particularly women and people of color, to enter fields traditionally dominated by men. The significance of her contributions extends beyond technology; they serve as a reminder of the importance of diversity in innovation and inspire others to pursue their creative ideas.
• Evaluate how Marie Van Brittan Brown's invention reflects the societal challenges faced by African Americans in the 1960s and the role of innovation as a response to those challenges.
  • Marie Van Brittan Brown's invention is a direct response to the societal challenges faced by African Americans during the 1960s, particularly issues related to safety and crime in urban neighborhoods. By developing a home security system, she not only provided a practical solution but also highlighted the urgent need for safety in communities where residents often felt vulnerable. This innovation reflects how individuals can leverage creativity and technology to address pressing social issues, serving as a powerful example of how necessity drives invention in response to systemic challenges.

Related terms

Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV): A system that uses video cameras to transmit a signal to a specific place, on a limited set of monitors, primarily used for security surveillance.

Invention: The creation of a new device or process that did not previously exist, often resulting from research and experimentation.

Patent: A legal right granted to an inventor that gives them exclusive rights to make, use, or sell their invention for a certain period of time.