Samuel Morse
An American painter and inventor who contributed to the invention of a single-wire telegraph system and co-developed the Morse code.
Most quoted
"The mere transmission of intelligence is the smallest part of the work of the telegraph. Its great mission is to serve as a bond of peace and friendship between the nations of the earth."
— from Speech, 1868
"This mode of instantaneous communication must inevitably become an instrument of immense power, to be wielded for good or for evil, as it shall be properly or improperly directed."
— from Letter to the Secretary of the Treasury, 1838
"This mode of communication will enable the people of the United States to communicate with each other, and with the government, with a rapidity and certainty hitherto unknown."
— from Letter to the Secretary of the Treasury, 1838
All quotes by Samuel Morse (396)
The success of the telegraph is now beyond all question.
I have been accused of being a visionary, but I have seen my vision realized.
The telegraph will annihilate space and time.
This invention is the result of many years of patient toil.
I have sought to make the telegraph as simple and as efficient as possible.
The telegraph is a gift from God to man.
I have lived to see the day when my invention is universally acknowledged.
The telegraph will be a powerful agent in the cause of peace.
I have encountered many obstacles, but I have overcome them all.
The future of the telegraph is boundless.
My only desire has been to serve my country and my fellow men.
The telegraph is a testament to the power of human ingenuity.
I have always believed in the ultimate success of my invention.
I have been fortunate to have the support of many friends and colleagues.
The telegraph is a symbol of progress.
I hope that my invention will be a lasting benefit to mankind.
The electric current is the messenger of thought.
The telegraph has brought the world closer together.
I have done my part; it is now for others to carry on the work.
This telegraph is a wonderful thing, but I sometimes wish I had stuck to painting. At least then I'd know what I was looking at.
Contemporaries of Samuel Morse
Other Inventions born within 50 years of Samuel Morse (1791–1872).