Technology makes the world go round but for that to have happened, someone needed to put the wheels in motion. From Edison's lightbulb and Bell's telephone, to Wozniak's Apple II and Berners-Lee's internet, there are plenty of revered inventors to choose from throughout history, big or small.
We'd like you to put yourself in the shoes of any tech inventor and write a series of diary entries from their perspective, around the time of the invention. Think about what they may have been thinking and considering, the moment of discovery, and the immediate aftermath. Three of the best, most detailed submissions can win $10 each! We're looking for between 500-1,200 words for this bounty.
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Date: 29th June 2005 Today we made massive strides in our journey at Apple. Months and months of brainstorming, and discussions. It's all paid off! Today marks the day we are going to change the tech world forever. Our new project is a revolutionary mobile phone which we've nicknamed Project Purple. We are going to combine a phone, our iPod, and an internet connector into one device. Crazy - I know, it is extremely ambitious of us, but I am prepared for all the challenges that lie ahead. I am certain that we will pave the way for the future, our team is excited - heck I'm excited. If we do this, if it works... we might change the world. The road ahead is going to be long and bumpy, and I know a long time of sleepless nights lie ahead, but I am ... excited... I CAN'T WAIT. LET'S DO THIS!!
Date: 9th January 2007 Hey diary, it's been a minute... wow, reading back on where I was 2 years ago, I'm happy to say my excitement is still as good as ever. Today, I took to the stage at Macworld and shared Project Purple to the world. I introduced the world to the iPhone and the reaction was everything I had hoped for and even more than I could have ever imagined. I did live demos of the device, the way the touch screen worked, the way all music, internet browsing, and phone calls were in one place. The encore of gasps was truly spine-tingling. the excitement and ambition I had when creating this completely transferred onto each one of those members of the audience. when I said i was going to change the world, with that reaction, I felt like Ive. I have opened a new chapter in tech. the iPhone represents the past 2 years of hard work, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As I predicted, there were ALOT of sleepless nights, really bad heated debates, a lot of moments of doubt but standing on that stage today... it was worth it. This device... It's going to change the world.
Date: 29th June 2007 Hello, diary. It's been a minute since I wrote in here again, super sorry about that, the last 5 months have been crazy. In that time, I've just been working so hard on the final touches so everything is ready for launch day... which is TODAY!! Today is the day that our iPhone has officially launched! Project Purple is now out there with the whole world. The response has been so overwhelming in a good way. people lined up outside Apple stores all over the world, all so excited to get their hands on this new device. seeing the first customers walk out with their iPhones, smiling, and excited... how incredibly fulfilling. I can't even put into words what this means to me. this journey, it's been tough. I would definitely say, the most challenging but also rewarding in my career. We faced so many challenges, skepticism, technical hurdles, and immense pressure but we persevered - we kept moving forward. This iPhone is not just a product... no.. its a testament of what we can achieve when we dare to think differently. as I look forward, I am filled with so much pride and optimism for what lies ahead. I said years ago that we were going to change the world. I was right. the future of technology is here, and we are only just getting started! and to all the doubters - it's too late to apologise (cue apologise by OneRepublic which I just bought from iTunes)
Now before reading this, please remember at the time, the issue of skin colour was still a huge thing, schools, houses, and living quarters were segregated, this I have had to lean into, to create the story over time in the forms of diary entries to essentially, make it clear how this remarkable woman, struggled and clawed her way to the top, despite adversity and racism.
M.C.J. Walker, was a woman, whose success, set in motion an entire set of strong women, taking initiative in this era of time.
Dear Diary,
Today the hair loss has become worse, and the constant dirt and steam are causing my hair to fall out rapidly, I simply do not know what to do, it is unseemly for a woman to lose her hair, for a while, gentlemen may seem distinguished with balding and minimal hair, it is quite the opposite with a woman, especially in this day and age. I think the lye soap may be the issue here, but there is nothing else.
Dear Diary,
Today my friend approached me and advised me to wear a hair wrap, pointing out that it is most unseemly for me to show such a balding head and if I am to ever find a suitor, I must look my best, I have declined this offer, I am determined to find a way to fix this, there must be one. I will not be marked as a lower status. I am a strong independent woman and if a man cannot find me attractive simply because of a small bit of hair loss, more fool him!
Dear Diary,
I have turned in desperation to my brothers, who are both barbers within the city. They have given me some advice but have little knowledge of women's hair in truth, or scalp disease. Many would fall into despair, but this only drives my determination.
Dear Diary,
Today I became a Poro Products saleswoman, to say I am pleased, is an understatement, with access to their products and chemicals, I can finally pursue my own hair loss issues as well! I am now cooking for the esteemed pharmacist Edmund L Scholtz, he is going to help me further. He has promised me, that he will not rest until we find a cure, although I suspect this may not be entirely out of kindness, still, I need to help.
Dear Diary,
Today was a special day, I got married! I married my love Charles, I am now a lady, now I will called Madam C.J Walker! I am so close to a breakthrough on my products, that soon I can help all women with hair loss and regrow their hair! My heart soars at this point! Imagine me, a lady! he promises me a trip to Europe for our honeymoon, but I am not sure I have the time, there is so much to be done and he is so supportive of his wife being a strong, independent black woman in these times, he states it sends a strong message!
Dear Diary,
Today it has happened, I have finally done it, By mixing quantities of Precipitated Sulfur, Copper Sulfate, Beeswax, Petrolatum, Coconut Oil and of course adding in the extract of Violet to cover the awful smell of the mix, I have done, we can now grow women's hair back after natural hair loss! The process has been cheap so far and we have been able to offer our product to all women, no matter their status or the colour of their skin.
Dear Diary,
I have so much attention on me and I have revealed the dream which gave me what I needed, how what I needed came from here and in Africa, people are sometimes supportive and sometimes scornful. But women everywhere are regrowing their hair and a cheap price! I could not be happier!
Dear Diary,
Today, we have branched out into soaps and creams to help our huge nationwide clientele, we are calling it the females "Walker System", but we remain fully devoted to our hair care product range, simply offering more to empower black women in our time.
The invention of laminated glass by Edouard Benedictus is a sample of accidental discovery. This seemingly standard technology has saved millions of lives and continues to be a vital component in vehicle safety today.
Disclaimer
This text is fictional and does not represent precise events. The idea here is to draw attention to the inventor and invention that has saved millions of lives.
Introduction
Edouard was born on June 21, 1878, in Paris, France. Coming from a family with a rich artistic background, Edouard Benedictus pursued a diverse career as a chemist, composer, and painter. He received his education in chemistry and worked in his laboratory in Paris, where he conducted various experiments. His creative spirit and scientific curiosity led him to a groundbreaking discovery that would revolutionize automobile safety.
Diary Entry 1: The Mystery
Date: March 1903
Today was quite an interesting day. I was painting in my studio, working on a new piece inspired by the vibrant hues of the Parisian spring. As I stepped back to admire my work, I accidentally bumped into a shelf with my shoulder. Everything crashed to the floor, making a big mess. My loyal servant, Jean, quickly came to my aid, and we began cleaning up the consequences.
What grabbed my attention among the chaos was a flask. Despite being completely cracked, the flask stayed together, held by an invisible force. Intrigued by this phenomenon, I decided to keep the jar for further examination.
Diary Entry 2: The Revelation
Date: March 1903
The whole night I was unable to sleep, touched by curiosity about why this flask remained intact. The next day, straight out of bed, I rushed to the studio and started to closely inspect the mysterious object. The answer came quickly! It was a flask I had taken from the laboratory, containing plastic cellulose nitrate, used in one of my recent experiments. As it dried, it left a thin layer that held the pieces together, voilà!
My mind raced with possibilities. Could this unexpected occurrence be more than just an oddity? I decided to keep this discovery, suspecting that I might have stumbled upon something significant.
Diary Entry 3: A Grim Inspiration
Date: May 1903
It was a remarkably calm morning, flavored by very grim news I was reading in the morning newspaper. Another car accident had taken several lives, including two women, who sadly suffered not from the impact itself, but from being lacerated by glass fragments.
And then, it hit me like thunder - a plastified glass! I got up so fast that the table with coffee and croissants flipped away. Without delay, I rushed into the laboratory while the muse sang her song in my head. The possibilities seemed endless, and the urgency to test my theory became overwhelming.
I gathered all the necessary materials and began experimenting, determined to create a glass that would not shatter into dangerous shards. My initial tests showed promise, but there was much work to be done. The image of the victims who had suffered from car accidents fueled my resolve. Je dois réussir!
Diary Entry 4: Progress and Setbacks
Date: July 1903
The past few weeks have been a whirlwind. My initial experiments with plastified glass showed promise, but clarity and durability were issues. After seeking advice from Dr. Henri Perrot, we adjusted the plastic composition and application techniques.
Today, we achieved a breakthrough: a clear, strong sample that shattered without falling apart. This discovery fills me with hope. Tomorrow, we begin real-world testing!
Diary Entry 5: Real-World Testing
Date: August 1903
Today was a monumental day. We began testing the laminated glass (I decided to name it like that) prototypes in real-world conditions. The results were astounding - every impact test confirmed the glass's ability to remain intact, significantly reducing the risk of injury from shattered shards.
Seeing the success firsthand was exhilarating. I couldn't help but think about the countless lives this invention could save. With continued refinement and collaboration, I believe we can bring this lifesaving technology to the world.
Diary Entry 6: A Vision Realized
Date: October 1904
Today marks a significant milestone. After months of relentless work, trials, and refinements, we've successfully developed a reliable, clear, and strong laminated glass.
Reflecting on this journey, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude. The potential impact of laminated glass in preventing injuries and fatalities in car accidents is immeasurable. I look forward to seeing this invention adopted worldwide, making roads safer for everyone.
À l'avenir, pour la sécurité de tous my friends!
Outcomes
The patent filing occurred in 1909, followed by gradual adoption by the automobile industry. By the 1920s, laminated glass had become a standard feature in vehicle windshields.
A lot of people take the common things like these for granted, when things could have just as easily went differently and not invented at all. Imagine all our cars without laminated glass. Yikes!
In the history of scientific achievement, few names stand as firmly as Alessandro Volta. The Italian physicist and chemist invented the battery that marked a revolutionary leap in the understanding and application of electricity. To understand the magnitude of his contribution,
Early Inspiration and Challenges
Awakening Curiosity
January 15, 1791
Today, I find myself reflecting back on the nature of electricity. My study of Galvani's experiments has sparked an insatiable curiosity. The twitching of frog legs in response to electrical stimulation is intriguing, but I am convinced there is a deeper principle. I was determined to uncover the secret of this mysterious power.
The First Experiment
February 3, 1792
After much thought, I decided to replicate Galvani's experiment. Using metal and paper immersed in a saline solution, I observed a weak current that seemed to flow through the setup. Although my results were inconsistent, they were promising enough to fuel my determination. The challenge now was to improve the stability and predictability of this current.
Breakthroughs and Innovations
Developing the Voltaic Pile
March 20, 1799
yeaaah! After repeated attempts, I managed to create a stable and sustainable electric current. By stacking copper and zinc disks, separated by cloth soaked in salt water, I have built what I will call a Voltaic Pile. This device, when connected in series, produced a continuous flow of electricity. I was ecstatic. This was a victory not just for me but for the entire field of electrical science.
Public Recognition
May 10, 1800
I had the honor of presenting my Voltaic Pile to the distinguished members of the Royal Society in London. The reception was overwhelmingly positive. The realization that my invention could fundamentally change the landscape of science and technology made me feel proud. It was the culmination of years of tireless work and unwavering belief in my ideas.
Applications and Impact
Transforming Scientific Understanding
October 12, 1801
The implications of my Voltaic Pile are becoming increasingly clear. Scientists across Europe used my discovery in their experiments, resulting in amazing discoveries. Electrolysis, the decomposition of chemical compounds by electricity, is one of the phenomena that has been unlocked thanks to the Voltaic Pile. The understanding of chemical bonding and reactions is being revolutionized.
Industrial and Practical Uses
April 5, 1802
I am constantly impressed by the practical applications of my battery. Craftsmen use it for electroplating, depositing a thin layer of metal onto surfaces to prevent corrosion. This has significant industrial benefits. In addition, medical practitioners are exploring its potential for therapeutic use, applying electric current to treat a variety of ailments. The scope of its impact is truly vast.
Reflections and Future Prospects
Legacy and Influence
November 21, 1803
As I reflect on my journey, I feel very satisfied. The Voltaic Pile not only brought me recognition but also laid the foundation for future innovations. The study of electricity has changed forever, and I feel humbled to have played a part in this scientific revolution. My hope is that future generations will build on my work and continue to unravel the mysteries of electricity.
Encouraging Future Innovators
June 14, 1804
In my correspondence with young scientists, I urge them to pursue their curiosity with passion and resilience. The path of discovery is fraught with challenges, but the rewards are immeasurable. Innovation is the lifeblood of progress, and I am sure the world will witness many more groundbreaking discoveries in the years to come.
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Diary Entries of Nikola Tesla, Inventor of the Alternating Current (AC) System
January 10, 1887
I have been working tirelessly in my small laboratory, driven by a vision of a new electrical system. Today, I believe I have made significant progress with my alternating current (AC) motor design. The direct current (DC) system, championed by Edison, has its limitations. It is inefficient over long distances and requires numerous substations. AC, on the other hand, has the potential to transform the way we think about power distribution. The concept of using a rotating magnetic field is still met with skepticism, but I am confident in its potential.
February 17, 1887
After weeks of relentless effort, I have successfully built a prototype of the AC induction motor. The beauty of seeing it operate as I had envisioned is indescribable. It is more efficient and can transmit power over vast distances with minimal loss. I presented my findings to several colleagues, but their reactions were mixed. Many are still loyal to Edison and his DC system. Nonetheless, I am determined to demonstrate the superiority of AC. I must find a way to fund further research and development.
March 11, 1887
Fortune has smiled upon me. Today, I met with George Westinghouse, a visionary entrepreneur who is interested in my AC system. He sees the potential and has agreed to invest in my work. This partnership could be the breakthrough I need. Westinghouse is well-connected and has the resources to challenge Edison’s dominance in the electrical industry. We have begun discussing plans to develop and promote AC power. The future looks promising, but I am aware that the road ahead will be fraught with challenges.
August 16, 1888
Westinghouse and I have made significant strides in promoting AC power. We have installed several AC systems in various locations, and the results are promising. However, Edison has launched a fierce campaign against us, dubbing AC as dangerous and unreliable. He even orchestrated public demonstrations to show the dangers of AC, electrocuting animals to frighten the public. It is disheartening to see such tactics, but I am not deterred. I believe in the science and the potential of AC. We must continue to educate the public and prove the safety and efficiency of our system.
September 4, 1888
Today, I had the honor of presenting my work on AC power to the American Institute of Electrical Engineers. The reception was more positive than I had anticipated. Many engineers and scientists are beginning to see the advantages of AC over DC. It feels like a turning point. However, the financial and political pressure from Edison and his allies remains intense. Westinghouse has been a steadfast ally, but I fear that the battle for AC acceptance will continue to be arduous and contentious.
March 31, 1891
The past few years have been a whirlwind of innovation and struggle. Today marks a significant milestone: the successful completion of the Ames Hydroelectric Generating Plant. It is the first power plant to transmit high-voltage AC power over a long distance, providing electricity to the town of Telluride, Colorado. This success is a testament to the viability of AC power. Seeing the lights illuminate in Telluride is a triumph not just for me, but for the future of electrical engineering. I feel vindicated, but there is still much work to be done to achieve widespread acceptance.
May 1, 1893
The World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago is a golden opportunity to showcase the power of AC. Westinghouse and I have secured the contract to light the fair, a victory over Edison’s General Electric. The fairgrounds are lit up brilliantly, demonstrating the capabilities of AC to millions of visitors. The response has been overwhelmingly positive. People are mesmerized by the spectacle, and many are beginning to understand the potential of AC power. This public endorsement is crucial in our battle against the entrenched DC interests. I feel a renewed sense of optimism.
November 16, 1896
Today, the Niagara Falls Power Project has been completed, and the first power transmission from the plant to Buffalo, New York, was successful. This is perhaps the most significant achievement of my career. Harnessing the power of Niagara Falls to generate electricity and transmit it over long distances is the culmination of years of work and perseverance. The implications are vast; cities and industries can now be powered efficiently and reliably. I am overwhelmed with a sense of accomplishment and relief. This project is a testament to the potential of AC power and a validation of my life's work.
December 31, 1899
As the century draws to a close, I reflect on the journey of the past decade. The acceptance and implementation of AC power have surpassed my expectations. Despite the fierce opposition from Edison and his allies, AC has proven its worth and is now the standard for electrical power distribution. It is gratifying to see my ideas come to fruition and to know that they will benefit humanity for generations to come. However, my mind is already turning to new challenges and possibilities. There is still so much to explore and invent. The future is boundless, and I am eager to continue pushing the boundaries of science and technology.
January 7, 1900
The dawn of a new century brings fresh possibilities. My thoughts are consumed with ideas for wireless transmission of power and communication. The success of AC has given me the confidence to pursue even more ambitious projects. I have started work on a new invention that could transmit power without wires, using the Earth's natural conductivity. It is a bold concept, but I believe it is possible. The challenges ahead are immense, but the potential rewards are even greater. As I embark on this new journey, I am filled with the same sense of excitement and determination that has driven me all these years.
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Here's my diary of Alexander Graham Bell about his invention of the telephone
Diary of Alexander Graham Bell
Entry 1
I have been researching into the harmonic telegraph for some time now whilst this system has proven great for sending messages, I believe there must be a way to improve it to make it more efficient and have the ability to send multiple messages at once.
Entry 2
Further research has led me to believe that if I use tuned electronic metal reeds to send and receive multiple frequencies along a single wire it might be possible to send multiple messages at once without the need for new cabling it might even be able to transmit a human voice which the idea of that sound exciting.
Entry 3
Whilst I believe my research into creating an acoustic telegraph could prove results, unfortunately I lack the technical knowledge to take this idea further, maybe I can find someone to help me.
Entry 4
I met a wonderful fellow today that goes by Thomas Watson. He is a young electrical engineer at the age of 20 but with plenty of promise and he has agreed to become my assistant and assist me with the acoustic telegraph maybe we can make this work after all.
Entry 5
We have been making great progress on the acoustic telegraph and believe it's only a matter of time before we have a working prototype, but my eyes grow weary so this is it for now.
Entry 6
I have heard rumours that a man by the name of Elisha Gray has also been working towards the same goal of creating an acoustic telegraph and as my rival it seems like we must work with some haste as this has now become a race!
Entry 7
Today was another step as my patent lawyer has applied for the patent for transmitting voice and sounds now we just have to go ahead and make the thing! I believe Gray has also submitted a patent.
Entry 8
It's been 3 weeks and the patent was finally granted to me and not to Elisha Gray which makes me glad and now I believe we are just a few days away from our first test.
Entry 9
Tomorrow is finally the day we will proceed with our first test of the prototype invention. I have great hopes that this invention will make a huge difference.
Entry 10
Today was the 10th March 1876 and the first test was a huge success. The acoustic telegraph was able to transmit my voice to Watson in the next room who was out of earshot, my words were Mr Watson come here I want to see you and with that Watson appeared at the door with a big smile on his face.
Entry 11
My invention now has a name it is now known as a telephone, together with Watson we have been improving on the telephone to allow it to work at a much greater distance. All that is left is to show it to the world.
Entry 12
It has only been a couple of months since the telephone first transmitted my voice to Watson and now we are ready to show the world this marvelous invention at the Philadelphia Centennial tomorrow which is renowned for showcasing the latest inventions and as a keen inventor I am also interested in seeing other inventions.
Entry 13
The demonstration at the Philadelphia Centennial today was another huge success, the telephone was able to transmit my voice successfully as the crowd watched on in awe. I also had the chance to try a strange food product from Heinz.
Entry 14
I have decided not to have a telephone at my home as I fear it would provide too much of a distraction and prevent me from being able to focus. So I will leave the telephone for the lab only.
Entry 15
It's been a whirlwind of a year I have been across the country demonstrating the telephone, the interest in the telephone has grown rapidly, both with the public and in the wider scientific community and with more and more requests for telephones I took the decision to found a company, the company is called the Bell Telephone Company.
Entry 16
It's been a few years since the first telephone transmitted my voice but I have started to lose interest in the telephone company now and have sold the majority of my holdings in the company and now I will be able to once again be able to focus more on my thirst for knowledge and try to come up with the next great invention.
