19th Century Pioneer

William Sturgeon (1783 – 1850)  England

Self educated electrical engineer.  Devised the first electromagnet that was capable of  holding up more than its own weight.  (A 7 oz. electromagnet that held up 9 lbs).

In 1832 he built an electric motor and invented the commutator, a necessary part of most electric motors.  He improved the voltaic battery, invented the suspended coil galvanometer and also conducted Kite observations of atmospheric electrical conditions.

Source:  Encyclopedia Britannica on line.