Michael Faraday

Michael Faraday was a British scientist who made electricity useful. He was born in England in 1791. He discovered how magnets can create electricity. His work led to electric motors, generators, and transformers.

Early Life

Faraday grew up very poor and had little schooling. He worked as a bookbinder's apprentice and read many science books. He got a job as a lab assistant for a famous chemist. He taught himself science through experiments.

Big Discoveries

Faraday discovered electromagnetic induction, which means making electricity with magnets. He built the first electric motor. He also studied chemistry and discovered benzene. His work made modern electrical power possible.

Fun Facts

• Faraday never went to college or university.
• He gave popular Christmas science lectures for children that still happen today.
• He turned down a knighthood because he wanted to stay a plain Mr. Faraday.

Did You Know?

Albert Einstein kept a picture of Faraday on his wall. Einstein said Faraday's discoveries about electricity and magnetism were some of the most important in all of physics.