Electricity is one of the most transforming human discoveries ever. If you look around you, odds are, there are dozens of items that run on electricity. It's safe to say our lives would be fundamentally different without electricity. Bret's Electric is a commercial electrical system designer and consultant serving Northern Colorado. Below, we'll take a look at the fascinating history of electricity. Call us for a free estimate today!
The First "Shock" Heard Round the World
Electricity has always existed; it was not "invented." It was only discovered. The first electrical shock was first recorded in 2750 BC by the ancient Egyptians from the electrical shock of a catfish and electric ray. The Greeks knew static electricity existed, and they knew how to generate it.
The First Studies of Electricity
It wasn't until after the Dark Ages that the phenomenon of electricity first began to be studied. In the 1600s, an English physicist published a book about his theories on electricity (and he coined the word), while Luigi Galvani focused on trying to figure out how to store it. Alessandro Volta made discoveries that led to the invention of the first electric battery back in 1792.
Of Course, Ben Franklin
Ben Franklin is so beloved that many Americans want to think he discovered electricity. Alas, he was just lucky enough not to die when he flew his kite in an electrical storm and subsequently invented the lightning rod to help save homes from being destroyed by lightning strikes.
Direct Current (DC) and Alternating Current (AC)
Enter Thomas Edison, another beloved American who changed America forever. He developed direct current that was the sole source to power American homes. Nikola Tesla (yes, the namesake of the Tesla car) who was Edison's student, invented and championed alternating current, which is easier to convert and store than DC current. And guess what is the standard for electricity in the United States? AC!
Electricity Today
There have been hundreds of inventions since the "War of the Currents" in the late nineteenth century that have brought electricity to most American households and enabled Americans to have one of the highest standards of living in the world. Electricity continues to evolve and innovate, and now renewable energy is one of the fastest-growing sources of energy in the world.
CHOOSE BRET'S ELECTRIC FOR YOUR HOME'S ELECTRICAL SERVICES TODAY
Bret's Electric has been offering residential electrical services for years throughout Northern Colorado. We are passionate about ensuring the safety of your home. Call for a local and licensed electrician today!