In 1960, Theodore Maiman achieved a milestone by creating the first working laser using a ruby crystal. This innovative device operated on the principles of stimulated emission, a concept originally proposed by Albert Einstein in 1917. Maiman's prototype produced a deep red light when a flashlamp excited the ruby, causing it to emit coherent light. This revolutionary advancement garnered attention not only from physicists but also from industries looking to harness laser technology for various applications.

The patent granted on November 14, 1967, recognized Maiman's ingenuity and established a foundation for the burgeoning field of laser technology. Maiman's ruby laser was soon followed by developments in other types of lasers, such as gas and semiconductor lasers, prompting rapid expansion in fields such as telecommunications, medicine, manufacturing, and entertainment. The initial technological curiosity paved the way for lasers to become ubiquitous in everyday life, from barcode scanners and optical disc players to sophisticated surgical tools.

Maiman's work inspired further research and development into laser applications, and he became a prominent figure in optics and photonics. His contributions not only laid the groundwork for modern laser technology but also advanced academic and industrial sectors through his innovative vision. By protecting his invention through a patent, Maiman ensured that future inventors and scientists could reference and build upon his work, promoting further exploration into the practical uses of lasers.