International Traffic Light Day: When And Who Invented Traffic Light? Know All About It

History Of Traffic Lights: Traffic lights help regulate millions of vehicles worldwide, allowing us to stop at red lights, wait for green signals, and drive cautiously on yellow every day. But have you ever thought about the origins of traffic lights? Or who thought of this idea that could save lives? Every year on August 5, we celebrate International Traffic Light Day to honour this significant invention.

This day celebrates the August 5, 1914, installation of the first electric traffic light in history in Cleveland, Ohio, USA. Since then, traffic lights have grown to be a crucial component of both urban planning and road safety. Roads would be dangerous and confusing without them.

Despite its seemingly straightforward appearance, the traffic signal is crucial for managing heavy traffic, preventing accidents, and keeping people safe. These signals have evolved from simple red and green lights to the intelligent traffic systems of today. Let’s take a look at the history, invention and importance of traffic lights and why International Traffic Light Day reminds us to follow rules and drive responsibly.

History of Traffic Lights: When And Who Invented Traffic Light? 

Who invented the traffic light (Image: Londonist and historiographies)

The first traffic light was invented by a railway signalling engineer, John Peake Knight, in 1868. There was no electricity and it was installed outside the British Parliament in London, England. It was manually operated and used gas lamps for the red and green signals. Sadly, a few weeks later, it exploded, wounding the policeman who was driving it.

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When Was the First Electric Traffic Light Installed?

On August 5, 1914, Cleveland, Ohio, in the United States, installed the first electric traffic signal system. James Hoge invented it and was granted a patent for it in 1918. The system used a buzzer to indicate when the red and green lights would change. It regulated traffic at Euclid Avenue and East 105th Street and was electrically powered.

Who Invented the Modern Traffic Light?

History of traffic lights (Image: Canva)

In 1923, African-American inventor Garrett Morgan added the yellow/amber signal to traffic lights, improving them. His Red, Yellow and Green three-light system evolved into the industry standard that we still employ today.

Importance of International Traffic Light Day

1. Raises awareness about road safety.

2. Reminds people to obey traffic rules.

3. Celebrates a life-saving invention that reduces accidents.

4. Encourages people to respect traffic personnel and pedestrian crossings.

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Why Are Traffic Lights Still Important Today?

They manage heavy traffic in big cities.

Help both drivers and pedestrians move safely.

Reduce road rage, confusion, and accidents.

Used worldwide in roads, railways, airports, and even for bicycles.

More than just a light-hearted celebration, International Traffic Light Day serves as a reminder of the innovation that revolutionised traffic safety. Traffic lights continue to save lives every day, whether they are gas-powered lamps from the 1800s or smart signals that use sensors and artificial intelligence. Therefore, keep in mind the history of red lights and the creative minds who helped to make our roads safer the next time you stop at one.