Thomas Alva Edison

Life

1

Where were you born?

I was born in Milan, Ohio, United States, February 11 of 1847

2

What was your early interest?

I was interested in reading, chemistry and experiments

3

When did you lose your hearing?

I started to lose my hearing when I was a child but that helped me focus in my work

4

Did you have a formal education?

I had a little bit, I was homeschooled by my mother

5

Was there a rumor that you were born in Mexico?

Yes, but it is just a rumor

Achievements

1

What is your most famous invention?

My most famous invention is the bulb

2

How many patents did you hold?

Over 1000

3

What important invention did you create to improve communication?

I improved the phonograph, which was the first device to record and play back sound

4

How did you contribute to electric power distribution?

I developed one of the first electric power distribution systems

5

What was your role in the film industry?

I helped to invent the motion picture camera

Recognitions

1

Did you recieve any international honors?

Yes, many, including the French Legion of Honor

2

Where you ever inducted into any hall of fame?

Yes, in the National Invention Hall of Fame

3

Did you recieve recognition from the US goverment?

Yes, the Congressional Gold Medal in 1928

4

How did the public view you during your career?

I was celebrated as a genius and pioneer in technology

5

Are there museums dedicated to your work?

Yes, several museums like the Edison National Historic Site

Fun Facts

1

Were you really a poor student?

I was considered a poor student because I didn´t like the strict school system and I study in my house

2

Did you really invent the light bulb?

I improved it

3

Did you have a favorite invention?

Yes, the phonograph

4

Did you really work 24h a day?

I was known for my long work hours, but I never work more than 20h

5

Is there any truth in the rumor that you were born in Mexico?

No

Mean while in Mexico

1

What was happening in Mexico when you were born in 1847?

Mexico was in the mittle of the Mexican-American war

2

How was Mexico´s political situation during your very early career?

Mexico experienced the War of Reform and french intervention

3

What major event occurred in Mexico around the time you were patented the phonograph?

The Prfiriato began

4

How did Mexico change during your peek invention year?

Mexico expanded rail roads and industry under Diaz's regime

5

Were you ever connected to Mexico in its business or inventions?

Not phisically in Mexico, but my work was used in it and Porfirio send me a message