Thomas Edison
Thomas Alva Edison (1847–1931) was an American inventor and businessman best known for work on the incandescent light bulb, phonograph, electric power systems, and early motion-picture equipment.
Thomas Edison was an American inventor and businessman who shaped the modern electric age. He held a world-record 1,093 patents and created the first industrial research laboratory.
What it is
Edison is best known for the incandescent light bulb, phonograph, electric power systems, and early motion-picture equipment. He was called the "Wizard of Menlo Park" and built a systematic approach to invention that influenced how research is done today.
Major inventions
Key innovations include the phonograph (sound recording), the incandescent lamp (practical electric lighting), and early motion-picture cameras. These inventions launched industries in lighting, sound, and film, and had a broad influence in Canada and other industrialized countries.
Why it matters
Edison's Menlo Park laboratory was the first of its kind, turning invention into a repeatable process. His work on electric power distribution helped electrify cities, and his business methods set a template for modern industrial research and development.
In short
- Edison held 1,093 patents, a world record.
- He invented the phonograph, practical incandescent bulb, and early motion-picture devices.
- Menlo Park was the first industrial research lab.
- His work powered the electric age and influenced sound and film industries.
Edison’s inventions, especially electric lighting, sound recording, and motion pictures, had broad influence in Canada as in other industrialized countries.
Quick questions
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Sources
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_EdisonSupports: Basic biographical details, main inventions, and dates.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Thomas-EdisonSupports: Birth and death details, patents, inventions, and first industrial research laboratory.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/summary/Thomas-EdisonSupports: Summary of Edison’s work, Menlo Park laboratory, and patent total.
- Library of Congress — https://www.loc.gov/static/collections/edison-company-motion-pictures-and-sound-recordings/articles-and-essays/biography/life-of-thomas-alva-edison.htmlSupports: Influence on modern life, inventions, and patent count.
- Encyclopedia.com — https://www.encyclopedia.com/science/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/thomas-alva-edisonSupports: Patent total and major inventions.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/facts/Thomas-EdisonSupports: Nickname and selected inventions.