Thomas Edison demonstrates incandescent lighting to the public for the first time, in Menlo Park, New Jersey.

Thomas Edison (1847–1931) was a prolific American inventor and entrepreneur whose groundbreaking contributions significantly shaped modern technology. Known as the “Wizard of Menlo Park,” Edison held over 1,000 patents, including those for the phonograph, the electric light bulb, and the motion picture camera. His development of a practical and long-lasting electric light bulb, coupled with the creation of power distribution systems, revolutionized the way people lived and worked. Edison’s dedication to innovation extended beyond invention; he established research laboratories that fostered systematic and collaborative development, setting a precedent for modern industrial research. Despite facing criticism for aggressive business tactics and disputes over credit, his legacy as a transformative figure in science and technology remains indelible.