Mary Anderson and the Invention of the Windshield Wiper
Mary Anderson, born in the aftermath of the Civil War, patented the windshield wiper after experiencing a winter trolley ride in New York City. Her invention revolutionized vehicle safety during inclement weather.
Key Points
- Mary Anderson patented the windshield wiper in 1903
- Her invention was ahead of its time and faced initial rejection
- Modern windshield wipers operate via powerful motors, but Anderson's original device was manual
- Her patent expired in 1920, just as the popularity of automobiles was growing
Pros
- Revolutionized vehicle safety during inclement weather
- Pioneered a widely used safety device
Cons
- Faced skepticism and opposition from the transportation industry and auto titans