Thomas Edison (1847–1931) was an American inventor and businessman who is best known for his contributions to the development of electric power generation and numerous inventions that have had a significant impact on modern technology. He is often credited with developing the first commercially viable incandescent light bulb and for establishing the first industrial research laboratory. Edison's most notable inventions include the phonograph, the motion picture camera, and improvements to the telegraph and the telephone.
Cultural depictions of Thomas Edison are varied and extensive, reflecting his status as one of the most influential inventors and entrepreneurs in American history. Here are some common themes and representations across various forms of culture: 1. **Film and Television**: Edison has been portrayed in numerous films and television shows, often depicted as a brilliant and sometimes controversial figure. These portrayals can range from heroic to complex, highlighting both his innovative spirit and his sometimes ruthless business practices.
Thomas Edison was a pioneering figure in the early days of cinema and is credited with producing some of the first films in history. His studio, the Edison Manufacturing Company, was responsible for a number of short films in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Some notable films produced by Thomas Edison include: 1. **The Kiss** (1896) - This short film features a brief scene of a man and woman kissing, which caused quite a sensation at the time.
"Works" about Thomas Edison typically refers to a collection of his inventions, achievements, and contributions to various fields, particularly in electrical engineering and technology. Thomas Edison is known for his prolific work as an inventor and businessman. He held over 1,000 patents and created many devices that had a profound impact on society, including: 1. **The Phonograph**: This was the first device capable of recording and reproducing sound, which laid the groundwork for the music industry.
35 mm movie film refers to a specific film format used in motion pictures and still photography. The designation "35 mm" refers to the width of the film strip, which is 35 millimeters. This format has been one of the most common film sizes used in the film industry since the early 20th century. Here are some key points about 35 mm movie film: 1. **Physical Characteristics**: The film strip comprises a series of frames that capture images.
Alfred Clark was an American filmmaker and director active in the early 20th century, particularly known for his work in the silent film era. He was involved in the production of several short films, often associated with the Biograph Company, where he directed a number of influential and innovative works. One of his notable contributions to cinema was the development of special effects and innovative techniques in storytelling.
"Annie Oakley" is a silent film released in 1894, directed by the Lumière brothers, who were early pioneers of cinema. The film features the famous sharpshooter Annie Oakley, who was known for her incredible marksmanship skills and for being a prominent performer in Buffalo Bill's Wild West show. In this short film, which is just about 60 seconds long, Oakley demonstrates her shooting prowess by hitting various targets with precision.
A belt-drive turntable is a type of record player that uses a belt to connect the motor to the platter (the part that holds and spins the vinyl record). This design helps to isolate the platter from motor vibrations, which can affect sound quality. Here are some key features of belt-drive turntables: 1. **Belt Mechanism**: The motor turns a rubber or elastic belt, which in turn drives the platter.
"Blacksmith Scene" is a short film created in 1893 by the Thomas Edison Company. It is one of the earliest examples of a motion picture, and it is notable for its portrayal of a blacksmith and his assistant working in a forge. The film captures the process of blacksmithing, showing the blacksmith hammering iron and engaging in various activities associated with the craft.
"Bucking Broncho" is a classic rodeo event that involves a rider attempting to stay atop a specially trained horse (or "bronco") that is bucking or trying to throw them off. The goal is to maintain control and balance while the horse performs its bucking maneuvers, which can include jumping, twisting, and kicking.
A carbon microphone is an early type of microphone that uses carbon granules to convert sound into electrical signals. This technology was primarily used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and was one of the first methods for capturing sound through electronic means. ### How it Works: 1. **Construction:** A carbon microphone typically consists of a diaphragm (a thin, flexible membrane) that is placed in contact with carbon granules.
A Chinese opium den refers to a place where opium was smoked, particularly in the 19th and early 20th centuries. These establishments were commonly found in areas with significant Chinese immigrant populations, especially in places like the United States, Canada, and countries in Southeast Asia. Opium dens were typically dimly lit, with beds and cushions where patrons would lie down while smoking opium from pipes.
The Con Edison Energy Museum, located in New York City, is a unique institution dedicated to educating the public about the history and technology of energy production and distribution. Operated by Consolidated Edison, Inc., one of the largest energy companies in the U.S., the museum features exhibits that showcase the evolution of electricity, gas, and steam generation and their impact on urban life.
Consolidated Edison, Inc., commonly known as Con Edison, is one of the largest investor-owned energy companies in the United States. Headquartered in New York City, it provides electric, gas, and steam services to customers in New York City and surrounding areas. The company's main divisions include: 1. **Con Edison of New York**: This division delivers electricity and natural gas to residential and commercial customers.
"Corbett and Courtney Before the Kinetograph" is a short silent film released in 1894, directed by William K.L. Dickson and produced by the Edison Manufacturing Company. The film features a boxing match between two prominent fighters of the time, John L. Sullivan and James J. Corbett, depicted in a staged manner to showcase the sport of boxing.
Cornwall Electric is a utility company that provides electricity distribution services in Cornwall, Ontario, Canada. It is responsible for delivering electrical power to residential, commercial, and industrial customers within its service area. Cornwall Electric is owned by the City of Cornwall and operates under the regulations set by the Ontario Energy Board. The company focuses on ensuring reliable electricity supply, maintaining infrastructure, and promoting energy efficiency initiatives. In addition to distributing electricity, Cornwall Electric may also engage in customer service for billing and energy management assistance.
Dew-Dew-Dewey Day is a lighthearted and whimsical holiday celebrated on December 7th each year, primarily in the United States. The day is named after the character Dewey from the animated movie "A Bug's Life," and it is associated with fun activities, such as dressing up as bugs or insects, and enjoying bug-themed snacks or games. The observance encourages creativity and playful interactions among families and friends.
Edison's Black Maria, also known as the Black Maria studio, was the first movie studio in the United States, created by inventor Thomas Edison in 1893. Located in West Orange, New Jersey, the studio was a small, tar-paper-covered building that was designed to be a versatile, movable structure. Its unique design included a rotating roof, allowing natural light to enter at various angles—ideal for filming.
Edison is a township located in Middlesex County, New Jersey. It is part of the New York metropolitan area and is known for its diverse community, residential neighborhoods, and convenient access to major highways and public transportation. Edison is also recognized for its historical significance, as it was named after the famous inventor Thomas Edison, who established his research laboratory in the area in the late 19th century.
The Edison Gower-Bell Telephone Company of Europe was a telecommunications company established in the late 19th century. It was associated with the development and expansion of telephone technology in Europe and was one of the many companies that arose during the early days of the telephone industry. The company was named after two key figures: Thomas Edison, the American inventor known for his work on electric power and communication systems, and Alexander Graham Bell, the inventor of the telephone.
Edison Machine Works was a manufacturing company founded by Thomas Edison in 1887. Located in Schenectady, New York, the company was primarily focused on producing electrical equipment, including generators and motors, reflecting Edison's innovations in electrical engineering. Edison Machine Works played a significant role in the development and commercialization of electrical technology during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The Edison Manufacturing Company was an American company founded by Thomas Edison in 1887, primarily focused on the production of electric light bulbs and other electrical equipment. Initially established as a subsidiary of Edison's broader electrical ventures, the company was integral to the development and commercialization of electric lighting technology.
The Edison Museum, also known as the Thomas Alva Edison Museum, is dedicated to the life and inventions of Thomas Edison, one of the most prolific inventors in history. Located in Fort Myers, Florida, the museum showcases Edison's numerous inventions, including the phonograph, the electric light bulb, and many other innovations that have had a lasting impact on technology and society.
The Edison Ore-Milling Company was a minerals processing company founded by Thomas Edison in the late 19th century, specifically in 1881. It was established to improve the extraction of iron ore from low-grade deposits using innovative technology. During this period, iron was becoming increasingly important, especially for the burgeoning industrial landscape in the United States. Edison's company was notable for its attempts to utilize magnetic separation techniques to extract iron from ore.
The Edison Pioneers is an organization that was formed to honor and recognize individuals who made significant contributions to the fields of electricity, lighting, and related technologies, particularly those who worked with or were influenced by Thomas Edison. Founded in 1918, the group aims to preserve the legacy of Edison's work and encourage innovation in electrical engineering, technology, and scientific advancement.
The Edison Portland Cement Company was an American cement manufacturing company founded by inventor Thomas Edison in the early 20th century. Established in 1899 in New Jersey, the company specialized in the production of Portland cement, which is a key ingredient in concrete and construction. Edison was interested in developing efficient methods of cement production and sought to innovate the process.
Edison Records was a record label established by Thomas Edison’s company in the early 20th century, around 1896. It was one of the first record labels to produce and distribute recorded music, primarily focusing on cylinder recordings at first, since the phonograph cylinders were the primary medium for sound reproduction at that time. Edison Records was known for its high-quality recordings and its catalog included a variety of musical genres.
Edison State Park is a public recreational area located in Edison, New Jersey. The park is named after Thomas Edison, the famous inventor who had a significant relationship with the area during his lifetime. Edison State Park is known for its natural beauty, walking trails, picnic areas, and recreational facilities. The park serves as a green space for the community, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching.
The Edison Storage Battery Company was a company founded by Thomas Edison in 1901. The company aimed to develop and commercialize storage battery technologies, particularly using the innovative nickel-iron rechargeable battery that Edison had invented. This type of battery was designed to be durable, efficient, and long-lasting, making it suitable for various applications, including electric vehicles and stationary energy storage.
Edison Studios was an early film studio located in the Bronx, New York, founded by Thomas Edison and his business associates in 1896. It was one of the first studios dedicated to producing motion pictures. Edison Studios played a crucial role in the development of the American film industry during the silent film era, producing a variety of shorts, including comedies, dramatic works, and early narratives.
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates is a historic site located in Fort Myers, Florida, that includes the former winter homes of inventors Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. The estate consists of the historic homes, lush gardens, and a museum that showcases the lives and achievements of both Edison's and Ford's families. Thomas Edison built his winter home, known as "Seminole Lodge," in 1886, and it features a beautiful waterfront setting along the Caloosahatchee River.
"Edisonade" is a term used to describe a subgenre of speculative fiction, particularly science fiction, that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The term is derived from the name of Thomas Edison, the famous inventor and businessman, as well as other contemporary inventors and scientific figures. Edisonades typically feature young protagonists, often boys or young men, who are inventors or amateur scientists.
The Edisonian approach refers to a method of problem-solving and innovation that is characterized by trial and error, experimentation, and incremental improvements, rather than relying solely on theoretical analysis or formal planning. Named after the prolific American inventor Thomas Edison, this approach emphasizes the importance of practical experimentation and hands-on experience in the development of new products or solutions.
Electrocuting an elephant refers to a historical event in which an elephant was executed using electricity as a method of capital punishment. One of the most infamous cases occurred in 1903, when an elephant named Topsy was killed at Coney Island in New York. Topsy was known for her aggressive behavior, which was attributed to her mistreatment by handlers.
"Fred Ott's Sneeze" is a short film directed by Thomas Edison, created in 1894. It is noted for being one of the earliest examples of a motion picture, and it features Fred Ott, an employee of Edison's company, who performs a simple act of sneezing. The film is significant in the history of cinema because it illustrates the early experimentation with moving images and the potential for storytelling through film, even in its most rudimentary form.
General Electric (GE) is a multinational conglomerate headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts. Founded in 1892 through the merger of Edison General Electric Company and Thomson-Houston Electric Company, GE has a long history in various sectors, including energy, healthcare, aviation, and manufacturing. The company operates through several business segments: 1. **Aviation**: GE Aviation manufactures jet engines and provides related services. It's one of the world's largest suppliers of jet engines for commercial and military aircraft.
The General Electric Research Laboratory, often referred to as GE Research, is a research and development facility that is part of General Electric (GE), an American multinational conglomerate. Founded in 1900 and located in Schenectady, New York, the laboratory has been instrumental in advancing technologies across various fields, including energy, healthcare, aviation, and materials science. GE Research has a rich history of innovation and has contributed to the development of numerous technologies and products.
The IEEE Edison Medal is a prestigious award established by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) in 1909. It is named after Thomas Edison, one of the most influential inventors and innovators in electrical engineering and technology. The medal honors individuals for their notable achievements in electrical and electronics engineering and is awarded for distinguished inventions, contributions, or advancements in the field. The award recognizes not only technical innovation but also the impact these contributions have made on society and the profession.
An incandescent light bulb is a type of electric light source that produces light by heating a filament made of tungsten until it glows. When electric current passes through the filament, it heats up to a high temperature (typically around 2,200 to 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit or 1,200 to 1,600 degrees Celsius), causing it to emit visible light.
The Kinetoscope is an early motion picture exhibition device invented by Thomas Edison and his assistant, William Kennedy Laurie Dickson, in the late 19th century. Developed in the early 1890s, it was designed for individual viewing of films. The Kinetoscope consists of a tall wooden cabinet with a window through which a viewer could look down at a series of moving images on a film strip, which was wound around rollers inside the machine.
The Leonard-Cushing fight refers to a notable boxing match that took place on February 11, 1958, between two fighters, Emile Griffith and Nickolaus "Leonard" Cushing. The fight is particularly significant because it showcased the skills and tenacity of both fighters. Emile Griffith, a well-known boxer who went on to become a world champion in the welterweight and middleweight divisions, faced a tough opponent in Cushing.
Light's Golden Jubilee refers to the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the discovery of the electron by J.J. Thomson in 1897. This event, which took place in 1947, was marked by various activities and commemorative events organized by scientific institutions worldwide to honor the significance of this discovery in the field of physics and its impact on science and technology.
Thomas Edison, one of the most prolific inventors in history, held over 1,000 patents throughout his lifetime. A "List of Edison patents" would typically consist of the patents he was granted for his various inventions, which spanned a wide range of fields including electric power generation, sound recording, and motion pictures.
Thomas Edison, one of the most prolific inventors in history, has had numerous things named after him to honor his contributions to science and technology. Here is a list of various entities and concepts named after Edison: 1. **Edison (New Jersey)** - A township named after Thomas Edison, reflecting his connection to the area. 2. **Edison National Historical Park** - Located in New Jersey, this park includes Edison's Menlo Park laboratory and other sites associated with his work.
Mina Miller Edison (1852-1947) was an American philanthropist and the wife of Thomas Edison, the renowned inventor and businessman. Born in Pennsylvania, she married Edison in 1886, and the couple had three children together. Mina played a significant role in Edison’s life, supporting his work and helping to manage their household. Beyond her role as Edison’s wife, Mina was involved in various charitable activities and community service, particularly in areas related to education and women's rights.
The Motion Picture Patents Company (MPPC), often referred to as the Edison Trust, was a trust formed in 1908 by several major film producers and the Edison Manufacturing Company, which was controlled by Thomas Edison. The primary purpose of the MPPC was to monopolize the production and distribution of films in the United States, effectively controlling the movie industry during the early years of cinema.
The Oriental Telephone Company is a telecommunications provider that specializes in offering phone services, internet solutions, and other related communications technologies. Depending on the context, it might refer to a specific company or brand in a particular region that focuses on serving customers with traditional landline services, mobile communications, or internet services.
The phonograph, invented by Thomas Edison in 1877, is an early device for playing back recorded sound. It works by capturing sound vibrations through a diaphragm that creates grooves on a rotating cylinder or disk. The most common early form of the phonograph played sound from a cylindrical medium, while later developments led to the creation of flat discs known as records.
A phonograph cylinder is an early medium for recording and reproducing sound. Invented by Thomas Edison in 1877, it consists of a cylindrical shell, typically made of wax or a similar material, onto which sound waves are inscribed in a spiral groove. The cylinder is mounted on a phonograph machine, which uses a needle to trace the grooves, converting the physical variations into sound.
A phonometer is an instrument used to measure sound levels, particularly sound intensity or pressure. It is typically used in acoustics and audio engineering to assess environmental noise, monitor sound levels in various settings, and help in the design of acoustical spaces. Phonometers can provide measurements in decibels (dB), which is a logarithmic unit used to express the intensity of sound.
President McKinley's inauguration footage refers to the recorded visual documentation of the inauguration ceremonies of William McKinley, the 25th president of the United States. McKinley's first inauguration took place on March 4, 1897, and his second on March 4, 1901. The significance of this footage lies in its historical value, as it is one of the earliest examples of film capturing a presidential inauguration.
**The Edison Twins** is a Canadian children's television series that originally aired from 1982 to 1986. The show was created by the company CTV and focused on the adventures of fraternal twins Tom and Annie Edison. The characters were portrayed by actors Andrew and Patricia Hunnisett. The series is best known for its educational content, as it often introduced scientific concepts and problem-solving techniques through entertaining storylines.
The Gordon Sisters Boxing refers to a boxing initiative or program associated with the Gordon sisters, known for their commitment to empowering young women through boxing and fitness.
"The Great Train Robbery" is a silent short film directed by Edwin S. Porter and released in 1903. It is often regarded as one of the first narrative films and is notable for its pioneering techniques in filmmaking, including the use of parallel editing and outdoor locations. The film is approximately 12 minutes long and depicts a fictionalized account of a group of bandits who rob a train.
The Henry Ford is a large indoor and outdoor museum complex located in Dearborn, Michigan. It is named after Henry Ford, the founder of the Ford Motor Company and a pivotal figure in the development of the American automobile industry. The complex encompasses several key attractions: 1. **The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation**: This museum showcases a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that highlight American innovation, including transportation, technological advancements, and everyday life.
Thomas A. Edison, Inc. is a company that pays tribute to Thomas Edison, the famous American inventor and businessman. Although information on the specific nature of the business might vary or be limited, companies with such names typically focus on innovation, technology, or products that celebrate Edison's legacy in electricity and invention.
Thomas Alva Edison was born on February 11, 1847, in Milan, Ohio, USA. His birthplace is significant as it marked the beginning of the life of one of the most prolific inventors in history. The house where he was born still stands and is preserved as a historical site. Visitors to Milan can learn about Edison's early life and the impact of his inventions on modern society.
The Thomas Alva Edison silver dollar refers to a commemorative coin issued by the United States Mint to honor the famous inventor Thomas Edison. This coin was part of a series that celebrates significant contributions to American culture and society. The Edison silver dollar was authorized by legislation in the 1920s and was issued in 1922. It features a portrait of Edison on the obverse (front) side and an image of the electric light bulb on the reverse (back) side.
The Thomas Edison Depot Museum is a historical site located in Port Huron, Michigan. It is dedicated to the life and work of Thomas Edison, particularly his early career as a telegraph operator. The museum is situated in a historic railroad depot where Edison worked as a young man. The museum features various exhibits that showcase Edison’s inventions and innovations, as well as artifacts related to his time in Port Huron.
The Thomas Edison House is a historical site located in Louisville, Kentucky, that was once the residence of the famous American inventor Thomas Edison during his teenage years. The house itself is significant because it serves as a reminder of Edison's early life before he became one of the world’s most prolific inventors, known for his contributions to electric power, telecommunications, and many other fields. The home has been preserved as a museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to Edison’s life and work.
Thomas Edison National Historical Park is a United States national park located in West Orange, New Jersey, that commemorates the life and work of inventor Thomas Edison. Established to preserve Edison's legacy and his contributions to science and technology, the park includes the Edison Laboratory, where many of his most significant inventions were developed, as well as his home, Glenmont. The park features various exhibits that showcase Edison's innovative work, including developments in electric light, sound recording, and motion pictures.
Ticker tape, historically, refers to a continuous strip of paper that was used to transmit information about stock prices and financial transactions in real-time via telegraph or other means. The term originates from the sound made by the ticker machine as it printed information. These machines, which became popular in the late 19th century, would transmit stock prices, bond prices, and other financial data, which were then printed on a long strip of paper—hence the name "ticker tape.
Topsy was a female African elephant who is famously known for her tragic story in the early 20th century. She was born around 1875 and spent a significant part of her life in captivity. Topsy was initially part of a circus and later moved to Coney Island in New York, where she was part of a zoo attraction. Topsy became infamous after a series of incidents that included her aggression towards humans, which ultimately led to her being deemed a danger.
USS California (SP-249) was a United States Navy patrol vessel that was active during World War I. Originally built as a commercial yacht named "California," she was acquired by the Navy for naval service in 1917. The vessel was designated as a patrol boat and served in various capacities, primarily along the U.S. East Coast. The USS California (SP-249) played a role in coastal patrol and other support activities during the war.
The War of the Currents refers to the late 19th-century conflict between two competing electrical systems for power distribution: alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). This rivalry was primarily characterized by the efforts of Thomas Edison, who promoted direct current through his company, and Nikola Tesla and George Westinghouse, who advocated for alternating current.
Articles by others on the same topic
There are currently no matching articles.