Happy Birthday, Thomas Edison

“If we did all the things we are capable of, we would literally astound ourselves.”

So said Thomas Alva Edison, who was born 164 years ago today in Milan, Ohio.

Perhaps the world’s greatest inventor knew that innovation started with an idea and was built upon a foundation of hard work: “Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration,” he said.

Edison’s approach to innovation and progress resulted in the phonograph, light bulb, motion picture camera, and countless other technological innovations we still use every day.

While Edison can’t lay claim to having invented the Internet, Edison’s breakthroughs in technology (he was granted more than 1,000 patents during his lifetime) undoubtedly paved the way for the Internet and many related technologies.

Edison’s spirit of innovation has also recently been echoed as President Obama Thursday unveiled his National Wireless Initiative in Michigan – a state where Connected Nation, through its Connect Michigan subsidiary, has been working to promote the life-altering technology of high-speed Internet.

Thomas Edison is a kindred spirit to all Americans, whether they be volunteer trainers, community leaders, or the staff here at Connected Nation, who are inspired to work toward a more connected society through technology.