Thomas Alva Edison (1847-1931) is arguably one of America’s most influential inventors, entrepreneurs and innovators in history. He is credited with inventing the incandescent light bulb, the phonograph and the motion picture camera and these inventions forever changed the communication, recording and entertainment.
Edison was born in Milan, Ohio and his first invention was the vote recorder, a machine which was sold to members of Congress in the late 1800s. After this invention Edison continued to come up with many other inventions such as the carbon microphone, improved Edison effect lamp and a new type of power generator.
Though Edison is most well known for invention of the light bulb, he also worked on and developed a number of other inventions throughout his lifetime. Among these include the telegraph, telephone, phonograph and the motion picture camera- all of which changed how we communicate and entertain ourselves. Edison’s phonograph was remarkable in its day as it was the first device that could record and reproduce sound. Edison’s motion picture camera, which he invented with the help of his assistants, was also groundbreaking as it was the first device that could record and reproduce sequences of moving pictures.
Edison’s inventions, experiments and desire to discover had a lasting impact on the world. He held over 1,000 patents for his inventions and discoveries, many of which are still in use today. He also established the first industrial research laboratory in Menlo Park, New Jersey and this laboratory revolutionized the invention process. Edison often described himself as having a “faculty of being able to think ahead of my time” and this ability undoubtedly contributed to many of his inventions and discoveries.
Edison is also well known for his philanthropy and commitment to improving the lives of others. In addition to his research and inventions, Edison also established and ran many companies throughout his lifetime. His philanthropy included the start of the Edison Botanic Research Corporation which was a research facility devoted to improving the quality of food.
His commitment to improvement didn’t just stop there. Edison also invested in charities, provided financial assistance to friends through loans, and provided scholarships to enable disadvantaged families to go to college.
Thanks to the pioneering spirit of Thomas Alva Edison, the world forever changed. His inventions and commitment to improvement provided us with unparalleled opportunities. While Edison has passed away, his legacy continues to live on in the many inventions he has inspired. In this day and age, it is easy to take for granted the many things he has contributed to our everyday lives, but we should never forget the courage, innovation, and ingenuity of Thomas Alva Edison.
