Alessandro Volta invents the first primitive battery, discovering that electricity can be generated through chemical processes; scientists quickly seize on the new tool to invent electric lighting. Meanwhile, a profound insight into the...

The telephone and first practical incandescent light bulb are invented while the word "electron" enters the scientific lexicon.

Short descriptions of important technological innovations produced in America and the date of their introduction.

A profile of Thomas Alva Edison, who lived from 1847 to 1931, an American who made many important inventions, such as the electric light bulb. A timeline of his inventions is provided here.