Origin of Traffic Lights
The world's first electric traffic light was installed on August 5, 1914, in Cleveland, Ohio. Based on a design by James Hoge, it helped manage the flow of both pedestrians and vehicles.
Pre-Electric Signals
Before electric lights, traffic was directed with manually operated gas-lit signals, introduced in London in 1868. Unfortunately, they were prone to explosions, which eventually led to their disuse.
First Three-Color Signal
In 1920, Detroit police officer William Potts devised the first three-color traffic system, adding the amber (yellow) light to existing red and green ones, significantly improving traffic flow safety.
Adoption of Traffic Towers
The 1920s saw the rise of traffic towers in many cities. Officers would control flows from elevated platforms. However, these were phased out as automated signals became widespread.
Traffic Lights Go International
Traffic lights spread globally in the 1920s and 1930s. London got its first electric traffic light in 1926 near the British Houses of Parliament at Westminster.
Invention of Pedestrian Signals
The concept of pedestrian signals was introduced by Charles Marshall in the 1930s. These signals created safer pedestrian crossings and further optimized traffic control.
Smart Traffic Lights
Modern traffic lights are part of intelligent transport systems, using sensors and AI to optimize flow. This technology reduces congestion and improves safety, representing the future of urban traffic management.
Where was the first electric traffic light installed?
Detroit, 1920
London, 1868
Cleveland, 1914
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