9 Latino Inventions That Changed the World

Color TV

Let’s start with something we all love—television! Did you know that the first color television was co-invented by a Mexican engineer? Guillermo González Camarena developed an early color wheel system in the 1940s that made it possible for us to enjoy vibrant images on TV. Without him, your favorite shows might still be in black and white.

Ballpoint Pens

If you’ve ever scribbled a quick note with a ballpoint pen, you’ve got a Latino inventor to thank. Ladislao José Biro, an Argentine-Hungarian, developed the first modern ballpoint pen in the 1930s. His pen was much smoother and more efficient than older fountain pens, which would often leak or smudge. Biro’s invention revolutionized how we write, and his last name is still used in many countries to refer to ballpoint pens.

Fast Dengue Fever Test

Dengue fever is a big problem in tropical regions, and to make matters worse, its symptoms often look a lot like other illnesses, such as Zika. This makes getting an accurate diagnosis super important. That’s where Brazilian inventor Maria Angélica de Camargo comes in. She saw a real need for a faster, cheaper way to detect Dengue, and set out to create it. Enter the Fast Dengue Fever Test—a low-cost, rapid test that helps doctors quickly tell the difference between Dengue and similar viruses like Zika. It’s a total game-changer for public health, especially in places where healthcare access is limited. Not only does Camargo’s innovation save money, but it’s saving lives by providing early detection in regions where every minute counts.

Neurochip Technology

Neurochip technology, which helps scientists better understand the brain and potentially cure neurological diseases, was pioneered by Mexican neuroscientist Jacobo Grinberg. His research into neuroplasticity and the electrical properties of brain cells paved the way for brain-computer interface technologies that could revolutionize how we treat conditions like Alzheimer’s and epilepsy.

STD Test LIZA

Getting tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is important, but let’s be honest—it’s often expensive, uncomfortable, and invasive. Mexican engineer Ishtar Rizzo, however, wanted to change that. Along with her co-creators, she developed LIZA, a test designed to make STD detection easier, quicker, and less intrusive. LIZA works with a simple urine sample, eliminating the need for more invasive procedures, and it's far more affordable than traditional STD tests. For many Latinas, this means taking control of their sexual health without the added stress of high medical costs or embarrassment. LIZA has made an enormous impact by making sexual health more accessible, affordable, and stigma-free, empowering women to prioritize their health and well-being.

The Artificial Heart

Cardiac surgery took a giant leap forward thanks to Argentine inventor Dr. Domingo Liotta. In 1969, he created the first fully functioning artificial heart, which was successfully implanted in a human patient. This groundbreaking invention paved the way for modern heart surgeries and life-saving heart transplants. Today, Liotta’s contributions continue to save countless lives worldwide.

Long-Life Nickel-Hydrogen Batteries

If you’ve ever looked up at the night sky and marveled at the stars, you might not realize that Latina ingenuity is helping power the technology that explores those distant galaxies. Puerto Rican engineer Olga D. González-Sanabria played a massive role in developing long-life nickel-hydrogen batteries—an essential technology for satellites and space research. These tough batteries can handle the extreme conditions of space, powering satellites as they orbit Earth, collecting critical data for research and communications. Every time a satellite sends back data from the outer reaches of space, it’s thanks in part to her groundbreaking contributions.

The X-Ray Microscope

Cuban-born physicist Albert Baez (yep, he’s the father of folk singer Joan Baez!) co-invented the first X-ray microscope. His invention allows scientists to view living cells without killing them—critical in fields like biology and medicine. Thanks to Baez’s work, researchers can get an up-close look at the building blocks of life without disrupting them.

Breast Pump System Using a Wall Vacuum Source

Breastfeeding may be natural, but it’s not always a walk in the park—especially for new moms with premature babies or other health challenges. That’s where Elena T. Medo, an American engineer with Latina roots, comes in. She developed a game-changing breast pump system that uses a wall vacuum source, making it easier for moms to express milk in hospitals. This device is a lifesaver for mothers in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), where premature babies often rely on alternative ways to receive breast milk. Medo’s invention ensures that even in tough situations, moms can still provide the best nutrition for their little ones, supporting both the babies’ health and the well-being of the mothers. Her work has transformed hospitals around the world, making it much easier for mothers to care for their newborns in critical moments.

Latinos have made huge contributions to the world, and these 9 inventions are just the tip of the iceberg. From groundbreaking medical advancements to making everyday life just a little more enjoyable, Latino inventors have been shaping the world in countless ways. Latino culture isn’t just part of the U.S. melting pot; it’s helping shape the future. Whether in science, technology, or even our day-to-day comforts, Latino inventors continue to change the world—one brilliant idea at a time.