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Alan Lee Litman (birthdate unknown) is an American inventor best known for his creation of "Chemical Mace," a personal defense spray. His inventions transitioned from household devices to personal safety tools, symbolizing an emphasis on protection and self-defense. Litman's transformation from a creator of domestic devices to safety products has become a significant part of his legacy.
Early Inventions Litman's early inventions were primarily household devices. His creations included a waterless egg cooker in 1963, an infrared nursing bottle heater, and a bacon cooker. However, these products never reached significant commercial success[1].
Creation of Chemical Mace The turning point in Litman's career came when a young female colleague of his wife, Doris Litman, was mugged. This incident led the Litmans to discuss products a woman might use to protect herself. Alan experimented with various chemicals, including kerosene, Freon, and sulfuric acid. He ultimately settled on chloroacetophenone, a chemical used as a tear gas during WWII, to create his "Chemical Mace."[1]
Litman founded the General Ordnance Equipment Corporation to market the product. In 1967, gun manufacturer Smith & Wesson purchased the company[2].
Legal Challenges Litman faced legal challenges in patenting "Chemical Mace." He did not receive a patent for the chemical mixture due to its prior identification by scientists. It was only in 1969 that he arrived at a patentable sprayer design that remains recognizable today[1].
Impact and Legacy Chemical Mace became both a tool for private protection and a weapon for riot control. Its transformation from a household invention to a widespread symbol of both justice and injustice represents a significant aspect of Litman's legacy[1].
Personal Life Alan and Doris Litman lived in Pittsburgh, and Doris was a science teacher. The couple was known for keeping an alligator named Ernst in their basement, possibly reflecting Alan's experiments on animal intelligence[1]. The Orinoco crocodile that they once kept became a type specimen at the Smithsonian.
The Forgotten History of Mace, Designed by a 29-Year-Old and Reinvented as a Police Weapon - Smithsonian Magazine History of Mace/Pepper Spray - Zarc.com The article summarizes Alan Litman's career, focusing on his significant invention of Chemical Mace and its implications in both private and public sectors. It also includes personal details, providing an overview of his life and work.