Adeline D. T. Whitney: Alphabet Blocks
In 1882, Adeline D. T. Whitney patented an early version of alphabet blocks that came in various shapes and sizes and could form letters, numbers, and punctuation symbols. Ironically, she fiercely believed that the woman belonged strictly at home and even wrote a series of anti-suffrage books.
That being said, her invention has made a huge impact on early child development and education (both for boys and girls!) We wonder what she would think of her invention today? We hope she might be at least a little pleased.