Thomas Edison (1847-1931), American inventor, one of the greatest inventors of all time。
Edison began to work at an early age and continued to work right up until his death。 Throughout his prolific career as an inventor, he was well known for his focus and determination。
During his career Edison patented more than 1,000 inventions, including the electric light, the phonograph, and the motion-picture camera。
These three inventions gave rise to giant industries—electric utilities, phonograph and record companies, and the film industry—thus changing the work and leisure habits of people throughout the world。
The period from 1879 to 1900, when Edison produced and perfected most of his devices, has been called the Age of Edison。