Thomas continued his experiments on the light bulb. He wanted it to be the best that it could be. He was having trouble with the filament. It burned out quickly. After testing 1600 different materials, he found that filaments made of carbonized bamboo burned the longest. This was important. He didn't want bulbs that people used in their homes to burn out too quickly.
Thomas used his knowledge of gas lamps and electricity to invent an electrical lighting system. It included a generator to make the electricity, wiring, switches, sockets and plugs. It was much like the system we have in place today, except it was much more primitive.
Thomas Edison was the most famous inventor of his time. He knew famous people such as Alexander Graham Bell (telephone) Henry Ford, (automobile) and Harvey Firestone (rubber tires.)
Today, we are able to heat our homes, use modern appliances and enjoy home entertainment, thanks to Thomas' electrical lighting system. However, his most brilliant idea was the light bulb. Thank you, Thomas Edison.
Links:
More information on Thomas Edison
Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum
Thomas Edison House, Louisville, Kentucky
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