Nikola Tesla

Nikola Tesla was a famous inventor and engineer. He was born in 1856 in what is now Croatia. He created the system of electricity that powers most homes today. Many people call him one of the smartest inventors ever.

Early Life

Tesla was born during a lightning storm. His mother was good at inventing small tools, which inspired him. He studied engineering in Europe. In 1884, he moved to the United States.

The Nikola Tesla Memorial Center in the village where he was born.
The Nikola Tesla Memorial Center in the village where he was born. (MayaSimFan / Wikimedia Commons)

Big Discoveries

Tesla invented the alternating current (AC) motor. This made it easy to send electricity over long distances. He also worked on radio technology and wireless energy. He held over 300 patents for his inventions.

Fun Facts

  • Tesla could memorize entire books after reading them once.
  • He was afraid of pearls and would not talk to women wearing them.
  • The electric car company Tesla was named after him.

Did You Know?

Tesla once lit up 200 lamps from 25 miles away without using any wires. He dreamed of sending free electricity to everyone in the world.