Invention Timeline - Dominique Francois Arago, French Astronomer and Natural Philosopher; Proved that the Best Magnet is a Bar of Steel Enclosed by a Helix of Copper Wire
b. February 26, 1786 and d. October 2, 1853
French astronomer and natural philosopher. He advocated and made some discoveries in the science of electro-magnetism, undulatory theory of light, and he showed that there is no substance which is not capable, under certain conditions, of exhibiting signs of the magnetic virtue, and he proved that the best magnet is a bar of steel enclosed by a helix of copper wire.
Such earnest natures are the fiery pith,
The compact nucleus, round which systems grow!
Mass after mass becomes inspired therewith,
And whirls impregnate with the central glow.-
High worth is elevated place; ’tis more;
It makes the post stand candidate for thee;
Makes more than monarchs, makes an honest man!
Tho’ no exchequer it commands, ’tis wealth;
And tho’ it wears no ribbon, ’tis renown;
Renown, that would not quit thee, tho’ disgraced,
Nor leave thee pendent on a master’s smile.
—Night Thoughts: Young
1837—The telegraphs of Dr. Steinheil became known. Morse claims to be the first inventor of a practical electric telegraph.
1837—The length of telegraphic communication established at Munich by Dr. Steinheil was an important practical advance in the system of extending wires.
1850, August 28—The first attempt to establish a submarine circuit between Dover and Calais took place.
