STEAM in History: Lyda Newman

Xóchitl Guadalupe Cruz López

Hairdresser • Inventor • Women’s Suffragist
1885-Unknown • United States

Newman invented a hairbrush design with synthetic bristles. It was more effective and durable, easier to clean and cheaper to produce than animal-hair brushes.

Newman is also known for being a key organizer of a Black branch of the Woman Suffrage Party.