Voices of America: What's your favorite American invention?

The thing that is most responsible for shaping America is, well, Americans. That is why in our celebration of the country’s 250th birthday, we decided to talk to those who make America what it is: its citizens. The biggest takeaway? We're not all the same. But that’s just one of the things that makes us great. 

In this series, we asked dozens of Americans nine questions to gather their thoughts on America yesterday, today and tomorrow. Here is what they had to say.

What's your favorite American invention?

The personal computer because it allows everyone to make whatever they want in any software they want.

— Paul Jordan, student at Lakewood Ranch High and member of Technology Student Association

I always had a fascination with airplanes, and being able to travel a long distance in a short amount of time.

— Jetson Grimes, president and founder of the Greater Newtown Community Redevelopment Corp., manager of Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrations, and owner of Jetson’s Creative Trends salon

The phonograph. Once Edison invented it, music could be heard by many people, not just the people who went to the concert. It made life so much better.

— Carol Matthias, retired Sarasota resident

Mine would be space rockets. It’s amazing that they can go all the way to the moon. My dad works with guidance systems, so that’s why it comes to mind.

— Patti Benz, retailer

It would have to be the smart phone. I can’t imagine doing business or keeping in touch with loved ones without it.

— Adam Myara, restaurateur and real estate agent

I have many, but I would say one that I can actually say is my favorite American invention would be the streetlight (three-way traffic signal). It was made in America by a Black individual (Garrett Morgan). We still get in accidents, but without it, there would be more. 

— Rahim Turner, Lakewood Ranch resident, independent contractor and barber

As a Floridian, I have to say, air conditioning.

— Amanda Ballard, Manatee County commissioner

The American fire service (specifically Benjamin Franklin founding the Union Fire Company in 1736) because they do so much, especially now. It’s grown from such humble beginnings from just putting out fire to unbelievable different types of rescue — medical and paramedics — it’s so far-reaching. 

— Don Gesualdi, retired firefighter

I like muscle cars in particular. Camaros.

— Pat Goranson, visiting from Illinois

My favorite American invention would have to be the television. What a transformative invention, bringing entertainment and news into U.S. households and changing the course of history for hundreds of millions of people worldwide.

— Barry Weisblatt, founder of WhiteLeaf Private Music Club