Final answer:
The correct answer is option 1. Thomas Edison holds the record for the most patents granted to an individual and is known for inventions such as the light bulb and the phonograph. His work at Menlo Park laid the groundwork for modern R&D labs, significantly impacting both industry and daily life.
Step-by-step explanation:
Thomas Edison - America's Greatest Inventor
While discussions on America's greatest inventor can be subjective, according to historical records, Thomas Edison (1847-1931) is often considered one of the most prolific inventors. He holds the record for most patents granted to an individual, with an astounding 1,093 patents. Edison's first invention was an automatic vote counter. However, this invention did not attract buyers from the government, despite its potential social benefits.
This setback did not deter Edison, as he continued to invent and innovate. His most famous invention is arguably the incandescent light bulb, which he perfected in 1879. Beyond lighting, Edison's contributions spanned several domains, including sound recording and motion pictures, epitomizing his belief that "genius is one percent inspiration and ninety nine percent perspiration.”
Edison's Menlo Park laboratory became a hub for scientific inquiry and research, influencing the modern research and development labs we see today. His relentless pursuit of innovation materially impacted society, transforming both industry and the everyday lives of people, marking Edison as an inventor who not only created gadgets but also reshaped the world.