BIRMINGHAM, Mich., July 25, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- During the 19th and 20th centuries more technological leaps and advances were made than all the ages of man. Many inventors combined during this period to help propel the United States to its current status. Some of these inventors have been overlooked, especially the contributions made by African Americans, a slight that authors Donald and Jane Wilson tend to correct with their new book, The Pride of African American History (now available through 1stBooks).
"The time has come to address these life-saving innovations and ensure that the proper credit be given where credit is due. The African Americans played a major role in establishing this nation as a world power," the Wilsons write.
The Wilsons hope to teach the world that African Americans have "contributed a disproportionate amount of creativity and resourcefulness." In all, African Americans are credited in this book with over 1100 U.S. patents. Their inventions range in magnitude and scope, from pain relieving drugs, the propeller, the gas mask, traffic signals, blood plasma and air conditioning to the elevator, rapid-fire guns, nuclear reactors and multi-stage rockets.
"Throughout their long history, African Americans have contributed more to improve world wide civilization than any other minority segment of the U.S. population as they have created a rich, complex and highly diverse culture laced with outstanding role models, who, despite gross injustices ... still manage to rise to the top of their chosen profession," the Wilsons write.
With inventions verified by United States patent numbers, The Pride of African American History will be a detailed source of one group's major contribution to the modern world that before now had gone unheralded.
Jane Wilson is a former assistant area development director for the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) in Michigan. A long time advocate for better human relations and equal opportunities, she is a member of many community organizations and does commendable work throughout Michigan.
Donald Wilson is a former advertising account executive at The Detroit News and a former director of public information for Detroit. A prolific writer, he has authored numerous novels and screenplays.
ABOUT 1STBOOKS
The oldest and most successful print-on-demand and eBook publishing company of its kind, 1stBooks was founded in 1997 and has helped more than 13,000 people worldwide realize their dreams of becoming published authors. For more information, visit www.1stBooks.com.