Historical Events tagged with "thomas edison"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Economics & Industry

German Government Acquires Phenol for Aspirin

August 15th, 1915 109 years ago

A revelation surfaced in the New York World newspaper regarding the Imperial German government purchasing surplus phenol from inventor Thomas Edison. This phenol, typically utilized in the manufacturing of explosives, was instead redirected to Bayer, a German pharmaceutical company, for the production of aspirin. This acquisition highlighted the complexities and ethical dilemmas in wartime commerce.

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Entertainment

Buffalo Bill and Annie Oakley Filmed by Edison

November 1st, 1894 130 years ago

Buffalo Bill Cody, along with 15 Native American performers and sharpshooter Annie Oakley, was filmed in Thomas Edison's Black Maria Studio in West Orange, New Jersey. This filming highlighted iconic Wild West performances and showcased the talents of these legendary figures in American entertainment. It provided a glimpse into the thrilling world of the Wild West at a time when such spectacles captivated audiences across the nation.

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Arts & Culture

Edison Completes Black Maria Motion Picture Studio

February 1st, 1893 132 years ago

Thomas A. Edison completed construction of the Black Maria, the first motion picture studio, in West Orange, New Jersey. Designed to facilitate the development of film and advance the technology of motion pictures, the studio was oriented to capture the maximum sunlight for filming. This innovative space not only marked a turning point in film production but also became a hub for many early filmmakers and actors, paving the way for the motion picture industry.

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Economics & Industry

Formation of General Electric Company

April 15th, 1892 132 years ago

The General Electric Company was established through the merger of Thomas Edison's Electric Light Company and the Thomson-Houston Electric Company in Schenectady, New York. This merger was significant as it combined two of the leading electrical companies of the time, enabling innovation and expansion in electrical products and systems. This powerful collaboration not only enhanced their market position but also revolutionized electrical technology, leading to advancements in lighting and electric power distribution.

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Arts & Culture

Inaugural Display of Edison's Kinetoscope

May 20th, 1891 133 years ago

Thomas Edison showcased his prototype kinetoscope, a device designed for the exhibition of moving pictures. Available for public demonstration at the Garden Theater in New York City, the kinetoscope drew significant attention as viewers lined up to witness early motion pictures. This marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of cinema, as the kinetoscope allowed individuals to experience motion pictures in a novel way, fostering interest in projected film technology.

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Technology & Innovation

First Electric Lighting System by Edison Activated

January 19th, 1883 142 years ago

Thomas Edison’s innovative electric lighting system began operations in Roselle, New Jersey, representing a significant advancement in electrical infrastructure. This system utilized overhead wires to deliver electricity to homes and businesses in the area. Edison's design was revolutionary for its time, enabling efficient illumination and setting a precedent for future electric lighting systems. The project marked a foundational step towards electrification, transforming daily life and industry.

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Technology & Innovation

First Power Plant Supplies Electricity to Customers

September 4th, 1882 142 years ago

The Pearl Street Station in New York City began operations, becoming the first power plant to provide electricity to paying customers. Operated by Thomas Edison’s Edison Electric Illuminating Company, the plant started supplying power to a few hundred customers in lower Manhattan, illuminating streets, homes, and businesses. This marked a significant advancement in energy technology and urban infrastructure.

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Science & Technology

Edison Demonstrates Incandescent Lighting

December 31st, 1879 145 years ago

Thomas Edison publicly demonstrated incandescent lighting, showcasing his innovative light bulb in Menlo Park, New Jersey. The demonstration captivated the audience, marking a significant milestone in electrical engineering. Edison's invention provided a brighter and more efficient alternative to gas lighting, revolutionizing indoor illumination. This public event drew considerable attention, highlighting the transformative potential of electrical light and cementing Edison's reputation as a leading inventor of his time.

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Science & Technology

Edison Tests Practical Electric Light Bulb

October 22nd, 1879 145 years ago

Thomas Edison tested a carbonized filament in a light bulb, achieving a remarkable result of lasting 13.5 hours before burning out. This test marked a significant milestone in the development of electric lighting solutions, demonstrating the potential of incandescent bulbs for practical use in everyday life. Conducted at Edison's laboratory, the experiment laid the groundwork for his future innovations in electrical illumination that would change the world.

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