Young Thomas Alva Edison, age 14

Thomas Alva Edison (1847–1931) was an American inventor and businessman, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the development of modern technology. Born in Milan, Ohio, Edison showed an early interest in science and invention, working on various experiments throughout his childhood. His formal education was limited, but he was largely self-taught.

Edison is best known for inventing the practical electric light bulb, but his inventions extended far beyond that. He developed the phonograph, the motion picture camera, and the alkaline storage battery, among many others. He held over 1,000 patents for his inventions and is credited with transforming industries such as telecommunications, electricity, and entertainment.

Edison founded General Electric (GE), which became one of the largest and most powerful industrial corporations in the world. His work in electricity and lighting helped usher in the second industrial revolution, greatly influencing the modern technological landscape.

Despite his many successes, Edison was also involved in several notable rivalries, most famously with Nikola Tesla over the development of alternating current (AC) versus direct current (DC) systems. Edison’s legacy is cemented in his many groundbreaking inventions that have shaped the modern world. He died in 1931 at the age of 84.