The Murder of Kitty Genovese: March 13, 1964
1964 · New York City, United States
Kitty Genovese was murdered in New York City, an event that led to research on the bystander effect and changes in emergency response protocols.
The First Electric Blanket Patent by George C. Crowley
On October 9, 1946, in the United States, inventor George C. Crowley was granted a patent for an electric blanket that featured thermostatic controls designed to maintain consistent warmth. This invention marked a significant milestone in the development of household electrical appliances, addressing the need for efficient and reliable personal heating solutions in post-war America.
Background and Development
The idea of using electricity for personal warmth was not entirely new, as early versions of electrically heated bedding existed. However, these initial models often lacked safety measures and were not widely adopted due to issues with heat regulation and reliability. George C. Crowley’s breakthrough lay in his incorporation of thermostatic controls, which allowed users to maintain a consistent temperature, thus optimizing comfort and safety.
Significance in Post-War America
After World War II, the United States experienced a period of rapid technological advancement and economic growth. Consumers were keen to integrate new appliances that offered modern conveniences into their everyday lives. Crowley’s electric blanket, with its improved safety features, aligned perfectly with this societal trend, contributing to the burgeoning market for electric household appliances.
Impact and Legacy
The introduction of the electric blanket heralded a new era of home comfort, enhancing the quality of life by providing an efficient way to combat cold temperatures. It also paved the way for further innovations in electrically powered home goods, significantly influencing the development of home environments that are accustomed to modern conveniences.
Crowley’s patent laid the groundwork for subsequent improvements in product design and technology, leading electric blankets to become a staple in American homes. They symbolized the increasing reliance on electricity to improve daily living standards, reflecting the broader trend of technological adoption in mid-20th century America.