Short Biography of Thomas Alva Edison

Thomas Alva Edison (1847-1931) was an American inventor and businessman who is widely considered to be one of the most influential inventors in history. He developed many devices that greatly influenced life around the world, including the practical incandescent electric light bulb, the phonograph, and the motion picture camera.

Edison began his career as a telegraph operator and quickly became interested in invention and innovation. In 1876, he set up a laboratory in Menlo Park, New Jersey, where he and his team of assistants conducted experiments and developed new technologies. His most famous invention, the incandescent light bulb, was developed in 1879 after thousands of failed attempts. He went on to develop a system for distributing electricity, which made the practical use of the light bulb possible.

In addition to the light bulb, Edison also invented the phonograph, a device that could record and play back sound, in 1877. He also developed the motion picture camera, which he called the "kinetoscope," in 1891. These inventions had a significant impact on society and the way people lived and worked.

Edison was also a successful businessman and held over 1,000 patents for his inventions. He was well known for his work ethic and is often quoted as saying "genius is one percent inspiration and 99 percent perspiration." He died in 1931 at the age of 84.

Thomas Edison's contributions to technology and innovation had a significant impact on the world and continue to be celebrated today. His inventions and innovations have changed the way we live, work and communicate. His legacy lives on through his inventions and the many companies he founded, such as General Electric.

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