Inventions and Innovations - Christian S.

The late 1800s brought forth a Renaissance of creative marvels and innovations that we take for granted today. The number of patents issued increased dramatically, prompting the United States Patent Office to request legislation that reversed the need for invention models that were accumulating rapidly. These advances were the products of a technological revolution that prompted further innovations during a golden age of invention. The wealth of technology from this era would improve our standard of living, affecting every aspect of American life. Advancements in office equipment included staplers, adding machines, fountain pens, and file folders. Retailers used an early version of the cash register. Numerous versions of toasters, grinders, peelers, mashers, ovens, and sweepers were patented before the turn of the century. Personal grooming became an affordable luxury with improved toilet paper, toothpaste in collapsible tubes and the disposable razor invented by K. C. Gillete. These conveniences pale in comparison to the wonders of advancements made in communication, lighting, and energy.

In 1876 Alexander Graham Bell patented his marvel, the telephone. He had competition on who was going to complete the telephone first. It took many tries to get the telephone to work right, but on March 10, 1876 Bell successfully transmitted his voice into the next room. Nikola Tesla was granted more than 100 patents including radios, the dynamo, alternating current, and a fluorescent lamp. In 1878 Joseph Swan patented the electric light bulb in Britain. Joseph Swan worked for Thomas Edison, so 10 years later Edison got an American patent which brought him more fame. Over the years Swan made improvements to his invention. During all these new discoveries he started his own company which combined with Edison's to create the Edison and Swan United Company or "Ediswan" for short. Edison is one the most famous inventors in American history. He invented the electric utility system, phonographs, kinetoscope, voice recorder and kinetophone.