Everyone knows Thomas Edison, the father of electricity; and most think his name is a hero. He may have invented many things that evolved or were intrinsically the pinnacles of technology. Thomas Edison was a hero because he gave a perfect image of the American dream, worked hard for what he loved, followed his dreams and changed the world in the process; he set the example that all people would one day follow. Achieving his goal through hard work and dedication, this is what makes him a hero. Thomas Edison was born in Milan, Ohio 1847. (Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th Edition. Dec2013, p1-1. 1p) Edison knew from a young age what he loved to do and began working to achieve his goals. (6) Thomas Edison was responsible for many of the world's greatest inventions and technologies, such as the light bulb and the phonograph. When Thomas Edison was young he had a series of small businesses to finance his passion for chemistry and technology (Phyllis Barkas Goldman “Thomas Alva Edison 1847-1931” 5). Thomas delivered newspapers and, as Phyllis Goldman explained, “expanded his business by offering to sell bread, tobacco, etc.” (5). He later had a railway compartment in which he not only practiced his art but continued his activities and even founded his newspaper (7). One of the many reasons for Edison's success was the fact that he was extremely, if not ridiculously, proactive. He was a businessman at the age of 12 (4). Thomas never stopped working. He was a child of infinite curiosity and energy (3). Phyllis Goldman describes Thomas Edison as “an extremely curious and energetic child. He was constantly looking for answers to questions” (3). Thomas Edison had an inclination for science from a young age... middle of paper... learn something from him. Thomas Edison did what thousands and thousands of people try to do with their lives, he realized his dreams and reached for the stars without stopping halfway. Everyone can take something away from their story, to make their life the best it can be. Anyone can reach the stars and he made it possible. This is why Thomas Edison is a hero. Works Cited Goldman, Phyllis Barkas. Monkeyshines about great inventors. 1997, p.31-34. 4p. 9 black and white photographs John Boman, editor. "Thomas Edison (Alva) (1847-1931)." Cambridge Dictionary of American Biography (2001): 1. Historical Reference Center. Network. May 21, 2014Crepeau, Bob. "Thomas Edison." Thomas Alva Edison (2006): 1-2. Book collection: non-fiction. Network. May 21, 2014.Gaines, Ann. "Thomas Edison." Thomas Edison (2002): 1. Historical Reference Center. Network. May 23 2014.