Thomas A. Edison and the Modernization of America

Library of American Biography

by Martin V. Melosi

Thomas A. Edison and the Modernization of America is a captivating narrative that chronicles America’s most formidable inventor. Martin Melosi creates a dynamic historical narrative by relating Edison’s personal history to larger cultural, political and economic trends. Melosi adeptly reveals the workings of Edison’s mind as well as his inventions’ lasting affect on the nation. The titles in the Library of American Biography Series make ideal supplements for American History Survey courses or other courses in American history where figures in history are explored. Paperback, brief, and inexpensive, each interpretive biography in this series focuses on a figure whose actions and ideas significantly influenced the course of American history and national life. In addition, each biography relates the life of its subject to the broader themes and developments of the times.

Genres: Nonfiction

221 pages, Paperback

First published January 17, 1997

About the author

Martin Victor Melosi is Hugh Roy and Lillie Cranz Cullen University Professor and the director of the Center for Public History at the University of Houston in Houston, Texas.

Reviews

[Kelsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

THOMAS EDISON WAS THE MAN!! I loved reading about all of his inventions, creations and perseverance. The author/biography series does an awesome job at incorperating family and personal life too, which adds a nice touch. Well done.

[Stacie (BTR) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book in college for history. I enjoyed it despite having no prior interest in Thomas Edison. If you are interested in this era of history, I recommend this book.

[Gregory · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good synopsis that places the fertile and restive inventor in the context of his times.