George Westinghouse was born on October 6, 1846, in New York. He was the second son of George Westinghouse Sr. and Emeline Vedder. From a young age, Westinghouse showed a talent for invention and engineering. At the age of nineteen, he invented the rotary steam engine, which was the first of many groundbreaking inventions he would create throughout his lifetime.
One of Westinghouse's most significant inventions was the air brake system for trains. Before his invention, there was no efficient way to stop trains, which led to many accidents and fatalities. Westinghouse's invention revolutionized the railway industry and saved countless lives. His air brake system is still used in trains today.
In addition to the air brake system, Westinghouse also developed AC electrical power. This innovation was used in early electric chairs in prisons, revolutionizing the way electricity was used in the criminal justice system. Westinghouse's AC electrical power system competed with Thomas Edison's direct current system, ultimately winning out and becoming the standard for electrical power distribution.
Westinghouse had three brothers named Henry, Albert, and John. He was a devoted family man, often spending time with his loved ones when he wasn't working on his inventions. Despite his busy schedule, Westinghouse always made time for his family and valued their support and encouragement.
Throughout his career, Westinghouse was known as one of Thomas Edison's biggest rivals. The two inventors competed fiercely to develop the most innovative technologies and gain market share in the growing electrical industry. Despite their rivalry, both men respected each other's work and ultimately contributed to the development of modern electricity.
Westinghouse's legacy as an inventor and entrepreneur is still felt today. His inventions continue to shape the way we live and work, and his innovative spirit lives on in the work of future generations of inventors and engineers.
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