The telephone is also the invention of Elisha Gray.
On March 14, 1876, Elisha Gray, a renowned electrician from Chicago, went to the patent office to file a patent application. Legally, this is referred to as a caveat, a document certifying the intent to patent and prohibiting anyone else from filing a request for the same invention.
A few hours later, Graham Bell makes the same request. Gray’s device is superior, but Bell’s patent is immediately reviewed at the request of his lawyer. Gray’s patent is only examined the next day. Bell gains a lead, but officials insist on thoroughly reviewing the work of both candidates. Once again, Bell proves more astute. While his competitor stays home, relying solely on the jury’s objectivity, Bell travels to personally meet the officials, quickly establishing a rapport. As a result, the decision favors Bell, and the patent office credits him with the discovery.
Three months later, Graham Bell continues to demonstrate initiative.
In order for his invention not to be merely a toy for scientists, Bell knows he must work to make it known to the widest audience. He visits learned societies, conferences, and exhibitions. During the…
