When was W. A. Martin's ingenuity on the modern door lock officially recognized by the U.S. Patent Office?

Answer

July 23, 1889

The official recognition of W. A. Martin's achievement by the U.S. Patent Office occurred on the specific date of July 23, 1889. This places his significant contribution firmly within the late 19th century, a period immediately following Reconstruction. This timing is crucial contextually because it highlights the immense systemic obstacles African Americans faced in establishing and defending intellectual property rights during that era. Successfully navigating the legal and social structures required to acquire this intellectual right made the act of obtaining the patent itself a notable achievement beyond the mechanical innovation involved in the modern door lock.

When was W. A. Martin's ingenuity on the modern door lock officially recognized by the U.S. Patent Office?
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