IEEE Edison Medal Origins of the Edison Medal on its 100th
Anniversary: Introduction The Edison medal is the most
prestigious award given in the United States and Canada
recognizing meritorious accomplishments in the fields of
electronics and electrical engineering. The year 2009 marks the
100th anniversary of the medal named in honor of America's most
famous inventor, Thomas Alva Edison. Edison's work exemplifies
the development of large scale industrial research laboratories,
the creation of new technology and the installation of the first
complete electrical systems in the 19th century. Over its
history, many of the most important contributors to the
development of electronics have been presented the Edison Medal
in recognition of their critical roles in laying the foundations
of the modern electrical world. This article presents the story
of the Edison Medal, its origins and its legacy of honor. Edison
at the Turn of the Century By the end of the 19th century,
Thomas Alva Edison had achieved fame, wealth