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Last Updated:
2024-09-22 08:21:10

Nikola Tesla

Inventor, electrical engineer, and futurist
Inventor, electrical engineer, and futurist

Nikola Tesla, known for AC electricity, worked with Edison. Invented AC motor, demonstrated AC generators at Chicago World's Fair. Born in 1856.

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1856
Birth of Nikola Tesla

Nikola Tesla, the famous inventor and electrical engineer, was born in 1856.

1856-01-07
Nikola Tesla's Birth

Nikola Tesla, the renowned inventor and electrical engineer, is born on January 7, 1856. He is known for his contributions to the development of alternating current (AC) electrical systems.

1856-06-28
Nikola Tesla's Baptism

Nikola Tesla was baptized in the Old Slavonic Church rite on June 28, 1856 (Julian calendar) in Smiljan near Gospić, Lika, now in Croatia. He was christened by the Serbian orthodox priest, Toma Oklobdžija.

1856-06-28
Nikola Tesla's Birth

Nikola Tesla was born during a summer storm with lightning striking at the stroke of midnight. He was baptized in the Old Slavonic Church rite and christened by a Serbian orthodox priest.

1856-07-09
Nikola Tesla's Birth

Nikola Tesla, the namesake of the company, was born on July 9, 1856.

1856-07-09
Tesla's birth

Nikola Tesla was born on July 9, 1856.

1856-07-10
Birth of Nikola Tesla

Nikola Tesla, the renowned inventor and electrical engineer, was born on July 10, 1856.

1856-07-10
Tesla's Birth

Nikola Tesla, the renowned inventor and engineer, was born on July 10th, 1856, in Smiljan, Croatia, marking the beginning of his extraordinary life.

1862
Tesla Starts Elementary School in Smiljan

In 1862, Tesla began his elementary education in Smiljan, where he studied German, mathematics, and religion.

1863
Tesla's Family Moves to Gospić

After the tragic death of his fourteen-year-old brother Dane, the Tesla family relocated to Gospić, where Nikola continued his elementary education.

1866
Tesla Starts Lower Real Gymnasium in Gospić

In 1866, Tesla began his education at the Lower Real Gymnasium in Gospić.

1870
Tesla starts Higher real gymnasium in Rakovac

In 1870, Tesla established the Higher real gymnasium in Rakovac, a village near Karlovac. The school followed the educational systems of German and Austrian schools, becoming one of the top high schools of that era.

1873
Tesla's Journey to Prague

During 1873, Nikola Tesla embarked on a journey to Prague, where he encountered new experiences and knowledge.

1874
Tesla Begins Work at Continental Edison Company

In 1874, Nikola Tesla started working at the Continental Edison Company, a significant step in his career.

1875
Tesla Moves to the United States

In 1875, Nikola Tesla immigrated to the United States, marking the beginning of his impactful contributions to science and technology in the country.

1876
Tesla loses scholarship and does not finish second year of studies

In 1876, Nikola Tesla lost his scholarship and was unable to complete the second year of his studies.

1877
Witnesses lecture on electrical engineering at Polytechnic School at Graz

In 1877, during his second year at the Polytechnic School at Graz, Tesla attended a lecture on electrical engineering by professor Poeschl.

1878
Tesla Begins Working for Thomas Edison

During 1878, Nikola Tesla started working for Thomas Edison, a collaboration that would later lead to conflicts and competition between the two inventors.

1879
Tesla's First Patents

In 1879, Nikola Tesla obtained his first patents, marking the beginning of his prolific career as an inventor.

1880
Tesla goes to Prague to pursue university studies in electro engineering

Tesla traveled to Prague with the intention of enrolling in university to study electro engineering. Although he was unable to secure admission, he continued attending lectures and utilizing the library to stay updated on the latest advancements in the field.

1881
Tesla works in Budapest for Central Telegraph Office

In 1881, Nikola Tesla started working in Budapest, Hungary for the Central Telegraph Office as a draftsman, and later became the chief electrician. During his time there, he made significant improvements to telephone equipment.

1882-01-01
Tesla moves to the U.S

In January 1882, Nikola Tesla moved to the United States.

1883
Tesla produces his first induction electric motor powered by alternating current

In 1883, Tesla achieved a significant milestone by creating his first induction electric motor powered by alternating current, a technology that would revolutionize the electrical industry.

1884-05-12
Tesla moves to the U.S

In 1884, Nikola Tesla moved to the United States where he started working as an assistant for Thomas Edison.

1885
Tesla starts working for Thomas Edison in New York City

After moving to the United States, Tesla was hired by Thomas Edison to work in New York City in 1885. Their collaboration was fruitful initially but faced challenges later on.

1886-03-15
Tesla creates the AC electrical wire

On March 15, 1886, Nikola Tesla created the AC electrical wire, a significant development in the field of electricity.

1887-10-12
Tesla applies for two patents for non synchronizing motor and electric transmission of power

In 1887, Tesla applied for two patents related to his non synchronizing motor and electric transmission of power at the U.S. Patents Office.

1887-11-30
Tesla applies for three patents for polyphase non synchronizing motors

In 1887, Tesla applied for three patents for the first polyphase non synchronizing motors with various features like short-circuited rotor, windings, rings, and brushes at the U.S. Patents Office.

1887-12-23
Tesla applies for two patents for electric energy transmission

In 1887, Tesla applied for two patents related to electric energy transmission using a specific type of motors at the U.S. Patents Office.

1888-04-10
Tesla applies for electric transmission of power patent

In April 10, 1888, Nikola Tesla applies for a patent related to the electric transmission of power using three conductors, star and polygon windings. This patent introduces the concept of using multiphase currents for power transmission.

1888-04-23
Tesla applies for commutator principle patent

On April 23, 1888, Nikola Tesla applies for a patent regarding the principle of the commutator, which allows a direct current generator to produce multiphase currents with minor modifications in the windings. This innovation revolutionizes the generation of multiphase currents.

1888-05-16
Tesla delivers lecture on alternate current motors and transformers

On May 16, 1888, Tesla presents a lecture titled 'A new system of alternate current motors and transformers' at the American Institute of Electrical Engineers in New York.

1889
First Three-Phase Electric Power Plant in Westinghouse's Company

In the beginning of 1889, the first three-phase electric power plant erected in Westinghouse's company started operation supplying power for induction motors in some of the company shops.

1890
Tesla researches high voltage and high frequency currents

In 1890, Tesla began his research on high voltage and high frequency currents at his laboratory located on 33-35 South Fifth Avenue in New York.

1891-01-01
Tesla Coil

Nikola Tesla invents the Tesla Coil on January 1, 1891.

1891-02-04
Tesla applies for patent on high frequency currents

On February 4, 1891, Nikola Tesla applied for a patent for the production of high frequency currents, marking a significant step in his research and inventions.

1891-02-21
Publication of Tesla's article on high frequency currents

On February 21, 1891, Nikola Tesla published his article 'Phenomena of alternate currents of very high frequency' in Electrical World, showcasing his discoveries on high frequency currents.

1891-04-24
Tesla applies for a patent for a high frequency transformer

On April 24, 1891, Nikola Tesla applied for a patent for a high frequency transformer.

1891-05-20
Tesla gives lecture on high frequency currents

On May 20, 1891, Nikola Tesla delivered his famous lecture 'Experiments with alternate currents of very high frequency and their application to methods of artificial illumination' before the American Institute of Electrical Engineers.

1892-02
Tesla delivers lectures in London

In February 1892, Nikola Tesla delivered a series of lectures in London before the Association of Electrical Engineers.

1892-04
Tesla's Mother Passes Away

In April 1892, Tesla's mother passes away during his second visit to Europe.

1892-05
Visit to Belgrade, Serbia

In May 1892, Nikola Tesla visited Belgrade, the capital of Serbia.

1893-01-01
Wireless Power

Nikola Tesla conceives the concept of wireless power on January 1, 1893.

1893-02-24
Lectures at Franklin Institute

On February 24, 1893, Nikola Tesla gave a lecture at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia on light and other high frequency phenomena, presenting a detailed plan of wireless radio telegraphy.

1893-03-01
Lectures at National Electrical Light Association

On March 1, 1893, Tesla gave a lecture in St. Louis before the National Electrical Light Association, discussing light and high frequency phenomena.

1894
Tesla erects first radio station and experiments in radio technology

In 1894, Nikola Tesla establishes his first small radio station in his laboratory and initiates experiments in radio technology. Additionally, he constructs his first radio-controlled automata during this period.

1895-01-01
First Hydroelectric Plant at Niagara Falls Opens

The first hydroelectric plant at the foot of Niagara Falls is opened, harnessing the power of the falls to generate electricity.

1895-03-13
Fire in Tesla's laboratory

On March 13th, 1895, a fire breaks out in Nikola Tesla's laboratory, hindering his research on X-rays and delaying the publication of his discovery of the electron. This event forces Tesla to relocate and establish a new laboratory on 46-48 East Houston Street.

1896-01-01
Tesla Becomes Honorary Member of Jugoslav Academy for Science and Arts

Nikola Tesla is honored with a membership in the Jugoslav Academy for Science and Arts, recognizing his significant contributions to the fields of science and arts.

1896-03-15
Nikola Tesla's Sketch Published in Omaha Daily Bee

Nikola Tesla's sketch was published in the Omaha Daily Bee on March 15, 1896. He was described as a 'genuine poet of electricity' and credited for his discovery of an alternating current electrical system, creation of 'artificial daylight,' and ambitious theories on interplanetary communication.

1896-05-01
Tesla Patents Apparatus for Creating Ozone

Nikola Tesla patents his apparatus for creating ozone, contributing to advancements in ozone generation technology.

1897-01-01
Tesla Patents Invention for Wireless Transmission of Electricity

Nikola Tesla patents his invention for the wireless transmission of electricity, a pioneering achievement with profound implications for the future of power distribution.

1898-01-01
Tesla Demonstrates Remote Control Boat

Nikola Tesla demonstrates his remote control boat, showcasing his pioneering work in the field of remote control technology.

1898-01-01
The Remote control

Nikola Tesla invents the remote control on January 1, 1898.

1898-07-01
Tesla granted patent for radio communication

On July 1, 1898, Nikola Tesla was granted patent 613 809 for his discoveries that laid the foundation for radio communication.

1899-05
Tesla's discovery of terrestrial stationary waves

In May 1899, Tesla made his most important discovery in Colorado Springs, proving that Earth could be used as a conductor and creating man-made lightning.

1900
Tesla Builds Tower for Wireless Transmission of Electricity

In 1900, Nikola Tesla constructed a tower on Long Island for his ambitious project of creating a world-wide system for wireless transmission of electricity. He received financial support from J.P. Morgan for this endeavor.

1901
Marconi Sends First Wireless Telegraph Across the Atlantic

In 1901, Gugliemo Marconi successfully sent the first wireless telegraph message between Europe and North America. He utilized Tesla's experiments and patents for this groundbreaking achievement.

1902
Demonstration of Tesla’s Remote Controlled Boat

In 1902, Nikola Tesla demonstrated the first remote controlled boat in New York, showcasing his pioneering work in remote control technology.

1904
J.P. Morgan Stops Funding Tesla's Tower

In 1904, J.P. Morgan refused to continue funding Nikola Tesla's tower project, leading to a rift between the two.

1905
Tesla Opens Laboratory on 165 Broadway

In 1905, Nikola Tesla opened a laboratory on 165 Broadway where he continued his innovative work in the field of electrical engineering and technology.

1906
Tesla Tower Project Abandoned

In 1906, the ambitious Tesla Tower project was finally abandoned.

1907
Tesla invents the speedometer

In 1907, Tesla invented the speedometer, a device used to measure the speed of a vehicle. This invention was a significant contribution to the automotive industry.

1908-02
Tesla signs a contract with American and British Manufacturing Company

In February 1908, Nikola Tesla signed a contract with the American and British Manufacturing Company to conduct experiments on a new principle of power transmission from fluids and to fluids.

1909
Tesla works on his first inventions tied to engineering

Between 1909 and 1922, Tesla focused on developing his initial engineering inventions, including designs for an airplane and experiments with steam and gas turbines. This period was pivotal in shaping his innovative work.

1910
Tesla moves office to Metropolitan Tower

Tesla relocates his office to the Metropolitan Tower, the tallest building at that time, marking a significant event in his career.

1911
Tesla works on developing and testing his steam turbines in New York

In 1911, Tesla dedicated his efforts to the development and testing of steam turbines in New York. His work in this field contributed significantly to advancements in turbine technology.

1913
Tesla granted two new patents for a turbine

In 1913, Nikola Tesla was granted two new patents, one for a turbine.

1914
Tesla registers patents for various inventions

In 1914, Tesla registered his patents for the bladeless turbine, speedometer, frequency meter, valve line, and lightning rod. He also opened an office in the Woolworth tower.

1915
Tesla declares bankruptcy after selling land for wireless transmission project

In 1915, Tesla declared bankruptcy after selling the land where he worked on his world-wide wireless transmission of electricity. The New York Times mentioned that Tesla and Edison might share the Nobel Prize.

1916
Tesla's bankruptcy

In 1916, Nikola Tesla faced financial difficulties and went bankrupt, leading to public awareness through an article in the New York World newspaper.

1917
Tesla receives the Edison medal and his tower at Wardencliff is torn down

In 1917, Tesla received the Edison medal. His tower at Wardencliff was torn down. He also published descriptions of the radar and spent most of his time feeding pigeons.

1919
Publication of Tesla's Articles

Nikola Tesla published a series of articles for the Electrical Experimenter, later compiled into the book My Inventions: The Autobiography of Nikola Tesla.

1922
Death of Tesla's Favorite Pigeon

Nikola Tesla's beloved pigeon passed away.

1923
Tesla moves to the Marguery Hotel

In 1923, Nikola Tesla moves to the Marguery Hotel after staying at the St. Regis Hotel.

1924
St. Regis Hotel sues Tesla for unpaid bills

In 1924, the St. Regis Hotel sues Nikola Tesla for 3299 dollars in unpaid bills. During this time, Tesla also meets the Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović.

1925
Katharine Johnson dies and Tesla moves to Pennsylvania Hotel

In 1925, Tesla's friend Katharine Johnson passes away, prompting Tesla to move to the Pennsylvania Hotel.

1926
Tesla's Honorary Doctorate

Nikola Tesla received an honorary doctorate from the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Belgrade.

1927-04
Tesla's View on Future and Legacy

In the interview, Tesla emphasizes the importance of letting the future reveal one's true accomplishments and legacy, highlighting the significance of one's work.

1928
Tesla's VTOL Biplane Patent

Nikola Tesla received his last patent, U.S. Patent 1,655,114, for a biplane design capable of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL).

1930
Tesla works on improving sulfur, iron, and copper production

During 1930, Tesla focused on enhancing the production processes of sulfur, iron, and copper. His efforts aimed to optimize industrial practices in these key sectors.

1931
Thomas Alva Edison passes away

In 1931, the renowned inventor Thomas Alva Edison died. This event marked the end of an era in technological innovation and development.

1933
Oldest known photo of Tesla's birthplace

A photograph taken in 1933 showing Tesla's birthplace in Smiljan, Croatia, capturing the historical location.

1935
Tesla's Views on Relativity

In 1935, Tesla criticized relativity as 'a beggar wrapped in purple whom ignorant people take for a king'.

1936-07-10
Birth of Nikola Tesla

Nikola Tesla, a Serbian-American inventor, electrical engineer, and futurist known for his contributions to the design of the modern alternating current electricity supply system, was born on July 10, 1856.

1937
Tesla's accident and illness

In 1937, Tesla was struck by a car in New York while on a walk, leading to injuries and subsequent pneumonia from which he never fully recovered.

1940
Tesla offers to work on beam weapon

In 1940, Nikola Tesla announced his readiness to collaborate with Washington on the development of a new beam weapon.

1941
Declining health of Nikola Tesla

Despite Nikola Tesla's claims of feeling well, his health was deteriorating in 1941.

1942
Tesla's Message Against Nazis and Fascism

In 1942, Nikola Tesla sent a message to all world academicians speaking out against Nazis and fascism.

1943-01-02
Tesla's Particle Beam Weapon

Despite Tesla's opposition to war, he developed a Particle Beam weapon, also referred to as a 'death Ray.' After Tesla's passing, the CIA confirmed that the weapon was ineffective, debunking the myth of the Death Ray.

1943-01-07
Death of Nikola Tesla

Nikola Tesla passed away on January 7, 1943, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking inventions and contributions to the field of electricity.

1943-01-10
Fiorello La Guardia reads eulogy for Tesla

On January 10, 1943, New York City mayor Fiorello La Guardia read a eulogy written by Slovene-American author Louis Adamic for Nikola Tesla live on WNYC radio, accompanied by violin pieces 'Ave Maria' and 'Tamo daleko'.

1943-01-12
FBI seizes Tesla's belongings

Two days after Nikola Tesla's death on January 12, 1943, the Federal Bureau of Investigation ordered the Alien Property Custodian to seize Tesla's belongings.

1944
Publication of Prodigal Genius: The Life of Nikola Tesla

In 1944, Pulitzer Prize-winning author John J. O'Neil published the book 'Prodigal Genius: The Life of Nikola Tesla', shedding light on the life of the renowned inventor.

1945
US military's interest in Tesla's 'death ray' and papers

In 1945, the US military showed interest in Tesla's 'death ray' and his papers, recognizing the potential significance of his inventions.

1946
Return of Tesla's papers and assets to Yugoslavia

In 1946, Tesla's nephew Nikola Kosanović returned to the US as Yugoslav ambassador to prepare for the return of Tesla's papers and assets to Yugoslavia.

1955
Nikola Tesla Museum in Belgrade opened to the public

The Nikola Tesla Museum in Belgrade was opened to the public in 1955, showcasing artifacts and information related to the life and work of Nikola Tesla.

1956
Monument to Nikola Tesla erected in Zagreb

In 1956, a monument honoring Nikola Tesla was erected in Zagreb, designed by the renowned sculptor Ivan Meštrović.

1957
Tesla's ashes transferred to Nikola Tesla Museum in Belgrade

In 1957, Nikola Tesla's ashes were transferred from the USA to the Nikola Tesla Museum in Belgrade, where they are now housed.

1963
Nikola Tesla Technical Museum in Zagreb opened to the public

In 1963, the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum in Zagreb was opened to the public, showcasing the life and work of the renowned inventor.

1975
IEEE Nikola Tesla Award established

The IEEE Nikola Tesla Award, established in 1975, is given annually to individuals or teams who have made significant contributions to the generation or utilization of electric power.

1976
Nikola Tesla's demonstration cabinet opened in Nikola Tesla Technical Museum

In 1976, Nikola Tesla's demonstration cabinet was opened to the public at the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum in Zagreb.

1977
Biographical TV series of Nikola Tesla

In 1977, Radio Television Zagreb produced a biographical TV series about Nikola Tesla.

1980
The Secret of Nikola Tesla by Krsto Papić

In 1980, Croatian director Krsto Papić released the film 'The Secret of Nikola Tesla'.

1982
My Inventions: The Autobiography of Nikola Tesla

In 1982, Ben Johnson published the book 'My Inventions: The Autobiography of Nikola Tesla'.

1984
First Tesla symposium in Colorado Springs

The inaugural Tesla symposium took place in Colorado Springs in 1984.

1994
Nikola Tesla's corner in New York City

In 1994, Nikola Tesla was honored with a corner dedicated to him at 6th Avenue and 40th Street in New York City.

2003
Founding of Tesla Inc.

In 2003, American entrepreneurs Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning established Tesla Inc., a company known for producing electric cars, solar panels, and batteries, as a tribute to the inventor. Tesla Inc. soon gained global recognition as one of the leading car brands.

2004
Elon Musk's Involvement with Tesla Inc.

In 2004, Elon Musk joined Tesla Motors as an investor, later becoming CEO and changing the company name to Tesla Inc., broadening its scope beyond cars.

2006
Inauguration of Nikola Tesla Memorial Center

The City of Gospic inaugurated the Nikola Tesla Memorial Center in 2006 to preserve the life and work of Nikola Tesla on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of his birth.

2017
Nicholas Hoult as Nikola Tesla in The Current War

In 2017, Nicholas Hoult portrayed Nikola Tesla in the movie The Current War.

2020
Movie Tesla with Ethan Hawke

The movie Tesla was made in 2020, featuring Ethan Hawke as Nikola Tesla.

2022
A Brief History of Nikola Tesla Told in Stamps

The event showcases the history of Nikola Tesla through stamps, highlighting significant moments in his life and contributions to science and technology.

2024
Memorial Center ''Nikola Tesla'' Smiljan Copyright

The Memorial Center dedicated to Nikola Tesla in Smiljan, Croatia, was copyrighted in 2024. It is a tribute to the renowned inventor and electrical engineer.

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Nikola Tesla
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