The kinetoscope, invented by Thomas Edison and his team, represented a monumental step in the development of motion picture technology. On the 20th of May in 1891, the first public exhibition of this device took place at the Garden Theater located in New York City. Designed for the viewing of short films, the kinetoscope allowed one person at a time to peer through a viewer and watch a sequence of images that created the illusion of motion. This innovation was part of Edison's broader work on the intersection of electricity and visual entertainment, as he sought to capture and replicate moving images in ways that had never been achieved before.

The demonstration included films that ran for just a few seconds each, like 'The Sneeze', showcasing the device's potential to entertain and captivate audiences. Edison's invention was not only a technological marvel but also sparked the curiosity of the public, leading to a surge of interest in cinema and visual media shortly thereafter. Crowds gathered to witness this visual curiosity, igniting the imaginations of inventors, entrepreneurs, and artists alike.

The kinetoscope laid the groundwork for future developments in film technology. Following its success, it prompted a wave of innovations in both motion picture apparatus and the creation of content to display on such devices. This moment can be regarded as a catalyst for the film industry, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and artistic expression through moving images. Edison's presentation marked the beginning of a new era in entertainment, setting the stage for projected films that would soon revolutionize how stories were told and enjoyed.