Who is widely credited with inventing the modern three-position traffic signal used to control road intersections?

Introduction / Context:
Traffic signals are essential for managing vehicles and pedestrians at busy intersections. Their development greatly reduced accidents and brought order to growing road traffic in the 20th century. This question asks about the inventor who is widely credited, especially in general knowledge sources, with creating a modern three-position traffic signal that helped shape today's road safety systems.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question focuses on road intersection traffic signals, not railway signals.
• The key phrase is "modern three-position traffic signal."
• We are choosing among inventors associated with different products.
• We assume a context of early 20th century road safety innovations.

Concept / Approach:
While various early traffic control devices existed, general knowledge questions often highlight Garrett Augustus Morgan, an African-American inventor, for his patented traffic signal in the early 1920s. His design introduced a third "all-stop" position between go and stop, making intersections safer by reducing collisions. To answer correctly, we must distinguish him from other inventors in the options and connect his name with the innovation in road signalization rather than unrelated inventions such as fountain pens or jeans.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Many general studies and competitive exam books describe Garrett Morgan's traffic signal as one of the early automatic signals used in the United States. He obtained a patent for it and later sold the rights. When you cross-check these facts with the options, only his name matches the traffic-signal innovation. The other inventors are firmly linked to different types of products, which provides a strong confirmation of your choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Lewis Edson Waterman improved the fountain pen, solving leakage problems, not traffic lights. Levi Strauss is famous for creating durable denim jeans, especially blue jeans for workers. Percy Spencer discovered the heating effect of microwaves and developed the microwave oven. None of them are known for inventing a traffic signal device, so they do not match the description in the question.

Common Pitfalls:
Learners sometimes confuse early railway signaling with road traffic lights or assume that any famous inventor might be the answer. Another common error is to overlook Garrett Morgan because he is less frequently discussed than some other inventors. To avoid such mistakes, focus on what each person is actually known for and always connect the inventor to the specific technology mentioned in the question, in this case, traffic signals for road intersections.

Final Answer:
The modern three-position traffic signal is widely credited to Garrett Augustus Morgan.