History's 15 Most Popular Inventors
ThoughtCo / Melissa Ling There have been many important inventors throughout history, but only a handful are usually recognized simply by their last name. This shortlist is of some of the esteemed inventors who are responsible for major innovations such as the printing press, the light bulb, television and, yes, even the iPhone. The following is a gallery of the most popular inventors as determined by reader usage and research demand. Read on to learn more about these well-known, influential inventors. 01 of 15 Thomas Edison 1847-1931 FPG / Staff / Getty Images The first great invention developed by Thomas Edison was the tin foil phonograph. A prolific producer, Edison is also known for his work with light bulbs, electricity, film, and audio devices. Continue Reading Below 02 of 15 Alexander Graham Bell 1847-1922 Historical / Contributor / Getty Images In 1876 at the age of 29, Alexander Graham Bell invented his telephone. Among one of his first innovations after the telephone was