Year: 1922

Who: Jack Johnson

Where: Springfield, Massachusetts

In 1922, Jack Johnson, renowned as the first Black heavyweight boxing champion, achieved a remarkable feat that would cement his place in history beyond the boxing ring. He was granted U.S. patent #1,413,121 on April 18 for a wrench he had developed. This invention showcased not only his mechanical aptitude but also his determination to innovate despite societal barriers.

Johnson's expertise extended beyond his athletic prowess. While his wrench patent was not the first of its kind—preceded by inventions like Solymon Merrick's wrench in 1835 and Charles Moncky's monkey wrench around 1858—Johnson's contribution added to the evolution of hand tools. His ability to transcend the realm of sports and delve into invention highlighted his

Today, Jack Johnson's legacy is preserved not only through his groundbreaking achievements in boxing but also through his ventures into innovation. His story reflects the broader themes of perseverance and versatility, illustrating how talent can manifest across diverse fields. Johnson's life invites reflection on the challenges faced by African American innovators in the early 20th century and continues to inspire future generations to break barriers in multiple disciplines.

Sources:

Websites:

• Evon, D. (2015, December 14). Did Jack Johnson invent the monkey wrench?. Snopes. https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/jack-johnsons-monkey-wrench/

• Ferris State University. (2005, February). Jack Johnson and the wrench. Jim Crow Museum. https://jimcrowmuseum.ferris.edu/question/2005/february.htm