This week MCI wants to look at the life of Joseph Henry, an electrical inventor extraordinaire. He discovered electromagnetic induction whilst building electromagnets. He also discovered mutual inductance independent of Faraday. However, Faraday was the first to make the discovery and publish it.
Following the theme of electromagnets, Joseph Henry used them to make the precursor to the electric doorbell beginning in 1831! We wonder what he would make of today’s camera doorbells, operable from a mobile phone. We’re sure he would have been fascinated.
Henry’s work on electric relays also became the basis of the electrical telegraph. Although he was not involved in the actual invention of the electrical telegraph, his contribution was recognised when the SI unit of inductance was officially named the henry.
Although Henry was born in New York, his parents had come from Scotland and his parents had not been affluent by any means. From these humble beginnings, Henry studied hard and excelled academically to become the first secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. A truly remarkable man.
Joseph Henry, we take our hats (bump caps) off to you, your hard work and your genius.
Have a great week everyone!