Inspired by a true story, Recognizing Morgan follows the life of Garrett A. Morgan, the turn of the century African-American inventor and entrepreneur. A brilliant and curious mind, he started his career as a sweeper in a sewing shop and went on to become one of the wealthiest men in Cleveland. Along the way, he created inventions that saved lives and aided public safety. However, all of his accomplishments could never outshine the color of his skin. His quest for acceptance leads him down a path of self-destruction as the society he has sworn to serve refuses to recognize his helping hand.