Samuel F. B. Morse

Samuel F. B. Morse was an American painter and inventor known for developing the electric telegraph and inventing Morse Code.

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Birth Name :

Samuel Finley Breese Morse

Profession :

Inventor

Birthday :

April 27, 1791

Star Sign :

Taurus

Death Date:

April 02, 1872

Age :

80

Birthplace :

Charlestown, Massachusetts

Samuel F.B. Morse, born on April 27, 1791, in Charlestown, Massachusetts, was a multifaceted American inventor and painter. He gained fame for creating the electric telegraph in the 1830s, which transformed long-distance communication. Alongside his friend Alfred Vail, Morse developed Morse Code in 1838, a system of dots and dashes representing letters, numerals, and punctuation marks.

Before delving into telegraphy, Morse pursued a career in art, producing highly regarded portraits, including one of the Marquis de Lafayette that now hangs in the White House. His passion for art led him to co-establish the National Academy of Design, where he served as its inaugural president. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in founding Vassar College, acting as its first president of the Board of Trustees.

Morse also harbored political ambitions, running for mayor of New York City in 1836 as a candidate for the Native American Party, also known as the Know-Nothing Party. This demonstrated his desire to influence the country’s future beyond his inventions and artwork.

In summary, Samuel F.B. Morse is best known for inventing the electric telegraph and Morse Code, but he also made significant contributions to the art world, co-founded the National Academy of Design, and played a key role in establishing Vassar College.