Thomas Edison

Life & History

Early Life: Thomas Alva Edison was born on February 11, 1847, in Milan, Ohio, and grew up in Port Huron, Michigan. He was largely homeschooled by his mother and demonstrated early curiosity in chemistry and mechanical devices.

Career & Inventions: Edison became one of the most prolific inventors in history, holding over 1,000 patents. He is credited with inventing the phonograph, improvements to the electric light bulb, and the motion picture camera.

Menlo Park: Edison established his famous laboratory in Menlo Park, New Jersey, often called the “invention factory.” His approach to systematic experimentation transformed the process of invention.

Legacy: Edison’s work laid the foundations of modern electric power, audio recording, and film industries. He passed away on October 18, 1931, in West Orange, New Jersey.