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Ernst Werner von Siemens facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Werner von Siemens was a brilliant German inventor and scientist. He is famous for starting the well-known electric company, Siemens. His work greatly helped develop electricity and technology. The unit for measuring electrical conductivity is named after him: the siemens.

Who Was Werner von Siemens?

Werner von Siemens was born on December 13, 1816, in Lenthe, Germany. He was one of 14 children. His family later moved to a farm in Menzendorf. Werner showed a strong interest in science and technology from a young age.

Early Life and Education

Werner's family faced financial difficulties. This meant he could not attend university. Instead, he joined the Prussian military in 1835. He studied at the Artillery and Engineering School in Berlin. Here, he learned a lot about science and engineering. This education was very important for his future inventions.

Starting the Siemens Company

In 1847, Werner von Siemens started a company with Johann Georg Halske. They called it Telegraphen-Bauanstalt von Siemens & Halske. This company focused on building telegraph lines. Telegraphs were like early text messages, sending signals over long distances. The company quickly grew and became very successful. It is now known simply as Siemens.

Key Inventions and Contributions

Werner von Siemens made many important inventions. He improved the telegraph system. He also developed new ways to insulate electric wires. This made telegraph lines more reliable.

The Dynamo Machine

One of his most important inventions was the dynamo machine in 1866. A dynamo is a device that creates electricity. It turns mechanical energy into electrical energy. This invention was a big step forward. It made it easier to produce electricity on a large scale. This helped power factories and homes.

Electric Railway

Werner von Siemens also built the world's first electric railway. This happened in Berlin in 1879. It showed how electricity could power trains. This was a major step towards modern public transport. He also helped build electric streetcars.

Other Innovations

Siemens also worked on other technologies. These included electric elevators and lighting systems. He believed that electricity would change the world. His company played a big part in this change.

Legacy and Impact

Werner von Siemens passed away on December 6, 1892. He left behind a huge legacy. His company, Siemens, is still one of the largest engineering companies today. It works in many areas, from energy to healthcare. His inventions helped shape the modern world. They made electricity a part of everyday life.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Werner von Siemens para niños

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Ernst Werner von Siemens Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.