In modern America, the efficient movement of goods is vitally important to our ability to thrive. Frederick McKinley Jones’ invention of a portable air-cooling unit for trucks allowed produce to be shipped safely across the country, fostering healthier eating habits for Americans. Jones received several patents and co-founded the U.S. Thermo Control Company, which grew into the Thermo King Corporation. He was the first African American to be awarded the National Medal of Technology, which was posthumously presented to his widow in 1991.
Jones’ mechanical skills in the fields of automobile and sound mechanics were mostly self-taught. A veteran of World War I, Jones also recognized the life-saving potential of his invention. The U.S. military used his portable cooling units to preserve food, blood, and medicine during World War II. His technology is still used on trucks, railroad cars, ships, and planes. #BlackHistoryMonth #InventingModernAmerica
Learn more about Frederick McKinley Jones: http://bit.ly/2OA5vCL
U.S. Patent no. 2,303,857
Title: Air Conditioner for Vehicles
Patented: December 1, 1942