Alexander Graham Bell

About

Alexander Graham Bell was a Scottish-born inventor, scientist, and innovator best known for inventing the telephone in 1876. He was passionate about communication, and his groundbreaking invention revolutionized the telecommunications industry. He is also credited with helping to found the American Telephone and Telegraph Company.

Alexander Graham Bell Timeline

1847

Alexander Graham Bell is Born

On March 3, 1847, Alexander Graham Bell was born in Edinburgh, Scotland.

1871

Moves to the United States

Bell and his family move to Canada and then to the United States.

1875

Forms Bell Telephone Company

Forms the Bell Telephone Company with partners Gardiner G. Hubbard and Thomas Sanders.

1876

Granted Patent for the Telephone

Receives a patent for the telephone on March 7, 1876.

1877

First Long Distance Call

Makes the first long distance call from Brantford, Ontario to Paris, Ontario.

1915

Death of Mabel Hubbard Bell

Alexander's wife Mabel Hubbard Bell passes away in 1915.

1922

Alexander Graham Bell Dies

Alexander passes away on August 2, 1922 in Nova Scotia, Canada.

5 Interesting Facts about Alexander Graham Bell

1. First Invention Was a Musical Device

Alexander Graham Bell's first invention was not the telephone, but an acoustic telegraph – a musical device that could send multiple messages over a single wire.

2. Involved in Early Aviation Efforts

Alexander Graham Bell was involved in early aviation efforts, inventing the tetrahedral kite and establishing the Aerial Experiment Association which tested a variety of aircraft designs.

3. Developed the Photophone

Alexander Graham Bell also developed the photophone, which transmitted sound on a beam of light and was a precursor to modern fiber optic communication systems.

4. Helped Found the National Geographic Society

Alexander Graham Bell helped found the National Geographic Society in 1888 to promote geographical research and exploration.

5. Worked on Deaf Education

Alexander Graham Bell was very involved in deaf education, inventing the visible speech system which allowed deaf people to learn how to speak by lip reading.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Alexander Graham Bell birthday?

Alexander Graham Bell was a Scottish inventor who was born on March 3, 1847 and died on August 2, 1922 at the age of 75. He is best known for inventing the first practical telephone, which he patented in 1876 and revolutionized personal communication.