

Thomas Edison (Part 1)
38 snips Apr 25, 2020
Explore the remarkable journey of Thomas Edison, from his humble beginnings in Michigan to his status as a renowned inventor. Discover how his mother's support shaped his confidence and intellect amid personal challenges. Witness his teenage entrepreneurial spirit as he turned newspaper selling into a thriving business. Delve into Edison's obsession with invention, including his pioneering work with telegraphy. Marvel at the early innovations that captivated the public, setting the stage for his fame as the creator of the phonograph.
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Edison's Shiloh Scheme
- To capitalize on the Battle of Shiloh news, young Edison bought newspapers on credit and cleverly inflated demand.
- By preemptively spreading word of the battle's news, he resold papers at a 5x markup, making a huge profit.
Train Newspaper and Chemistry Lab
- At 15, Edison created and printed the "Weekly Herald" on a moving train, showcasing his innovation.
- His passion for chemistry led to a lab fire, ending his train ventures.
Electric Shocks Prank
- Edison and his "tramping telegrapher" friends played pranks exploiting the public's unfamiliarity with electricity.
- One prank involved shocking unsuspecting bystanders in shallow water with a hidden wire.