Thomas Edison was a prolific American inventor and businessman, best known for his contributions to the development of electric light and power systems. He is credited with inventing the phonograph and the motion picture camera, among many other innovations that have shaped modern technology. Edison held over 1,000 patents, making him one of the most patented inventors in history. His work laid the foundation for the electrical industry, and his establishment of the first industrial research laboratory marked a significant shift in how inventions were developed and commercialized.