National Inventors’ Day

Inventions play an important role in human life. Thanks to the work of engineers, chemists, physicists, and biologists, life is becoming more comfortable every day. National Inventors’ Day was established in honor of inventors.

History

This holiday was established in the United States in 1986, initiated by President Ronald Reagan. The date of the celebration was not chosen by chance; on February 11, the famous American inventor Thomas Edison was born.

Few people think about what life was like for our ancestors without things like a microwave oven, a washing machine, a light bulb, or a telephone. Society is so accustomed to these inventions that it forgets about the people who spent years creating them. Thanks to the work of outstanding minds, humankind has learned to fight various diseases, control epidemics, and explore space. Our ancestors could not imagine that soon they would not have to meet in person to share information, but could just call on the phone. And to light a room, one simply needs to press a switch.

Interesting facts

• National Inventors’ Day exists in many countries around the world. However, the dates of celebration do not coincide, as each country times it to the birthday of a great inventor native to that country. In Argentina, it is on September 29, the birthday of László József Bíró, the creator of the ballpoint pen. In Hungary, it coincides with the memorial day (June 13) of Albert Szent-Györgyi, who first synthesized vitamin C.
• Thanks to his invention of the inverted bottle of ketchup, Paul Brown became a real millionaire, earning $13 million in a short time.
• Thomas Edison patented more than 1,000 inventions in the United States and about 3,000 in other countries worldwide.

How to celebrate

Any solemn event dedicated to National Inventors’ Day begins with a minute of silence in memory of deceased inventors.

This day inspires creativity and encourages continued work, with the hope that the world will soon know about your invention.

Gather a group of friends, watch a movie about new inventions, or devote time to studying the history of your favorite inventions.

When is National Inventors’ Day in 2024?

National Inventors’ Day is observed on February 11 each year.

Observations