Nikola Tesla was a Croatian inventor whose discoveries in physics and more than 700 inventions in the field of electrical engineering and radio engineering influenced global science, while their implementation shaped the modern way and quality of life. In 1884, after his studies at the technical college and polytechnic in Graz and Prague respectively, Tesla moved to New York.

He founded his own company, with a laboratory, and, in 1887, submitted his first patent applications for the discovery of the rotating magnetic field, the polyphase AC power system, and for inventions related to the generation (transformers and generators) and application of polyphase power (electrical motor). Based on Tesla’s discoveries, the world’s first hydroelectric power plant equipped with a polyphase AC system was built on the Niagara Falls in 1895.

His work in the area of high-frequency electrical current led him to develop the idea of the wireless transmission of electrical energy and signals over long distances. For this purpose, he constructed various remote-controlled wireless devices. His project of constructing a big radio transmission station on Long Island was part of a plan to set up a worldwide radio communication system. However, since the idea of the free transmission of signals and energy ultimately failed to garner interest among the investors, the project was abandoned. Nevertheless, Tesla’s vision and work on the development of the wireless transmission system anticipated the advent of wireless internet and the smartphone.

Humanity’s debt to Tesla is reflected in the two rare honours bestowed upon him: the physical measurement unit for magnetic flux density and a lunar crater both bear his name. A contemporary electric car brand is also named after him.

*Robert Lomas, The Man Who Invented the Twentieth Century: Nikola Tesla, Forgotten Genius of Electricity, 1999