Thomas Edison is one of the most well known American inventors ever. Many of his inventions are still being used today making his impact long lasting and important. Everyone uses many of his inventions daily, but few actually know very much about his life and influence.
When one begins to look closely at his contributions to modern life, it can be a bit staggering. This inventor, business man, and scientist has truly left a legacy that is worthy of admiration. He was one of the first inventors to utilize mass production and large teams of assistants to further push the boundaries of his ever-changing agendas.
Often called "The Wizard of Menlo Park" which is now Edison, New Jersey, he is widely considered to be extremely influential and impacting contributor to society. Edison holds 1,093 United States patents in his name, many pertaining to inventions still in use today. He also holds patents in the United Kingdom, Germany, and France.
Born in Milan, Ohio and growing up in Port Huron, Michigan, Tomas Edison was the youngest of seven children. He built his own scientific laboratory at the age of ten. As a young man, he was known to not accept seemingly factual information found in text books until he confirmed it on his own.
One of Edison's most famous legacies was the bitter battle that is often dubbed the "War of the Currents." This refers to the development of direct and alternating current systems which were both poised to change the use of electricity forever. Edison backed direct current systems, while his rival, Nikola Tesla, supported alternating current systems.
His legacy, though surrounded with a bit of controversy, is still one of the most influential even to this day. His early takes on motion picture cameras, phonographs, and the sustainable electric light bulb is truly significant. Many companies and awards bear his name.
Thomas Edison would pass away on October 18, 1931 at the age of 84. He is still widely revered as one of the most interesting and influential Americans to ever live. His name and likeness are still used in popular culture, as he has been used as a character in novels, movies, comic books, and video games. The interesting history, inventions, scientific contributions, and dramatic history involving Nikola Tesla, make him a true icon. Those with an interest in inventions, science, and American history will truly appreciate the work of Tomas Edison.
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