Thomas Edison, inventor: “Genius is one percent inspiration, ninety-nine percent perspiration”
Several memorable quotes are attributed to Thomas Edison—particularly his mantra on the value of persistent effort.
The quote:
“Genius is one percent inspiration, ninety-nine percent perspiration.”
Where does it come from?
It is attributed to Thomas Edison (1847-1931), an American inventor best known for his contribution to the development of the light bulb. A prolific creator, Edison amassed nearly 1,100 U.S. patents—and 2,000-plus worldwide—during a more than half-century career.
Edison is believed to have first publicly uttered his “one percent inspiration” quote around the turn of the 20th century. In a Harpers Monthly Magazine feature published in September 1932, just under a year after the Ohio native’s death, he is reported to have said the phrase in 1903.
What does Edison’s famous quote mean?
Edison’s message was that effort, discipline and persistence are crucial ingredients in human achievement. Talent alone will not suffice; it must be allied with sustained, focused hard work.
Three more memorable Edison quotes:
- “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”
- “When you have exhausted all possibilities, remember this - you haven’t.”
- “To invent, you need a good imagination and a pile of junk.”
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