What historical clash characterized the competition between Edison and Westinghouse/Tesla interests?
Answer
War of the Currents
The intense professional and commercial rivalry between the proponents of Thomas Edison's established Direct Current (DC) system and the advocates of Nikola Tesla's superior Alternating Current (AC) technology became famously known in history as the War of the Currents. This conflict was driven by fundamental differences in engineering approach—localized DC versus long-distance AC—and significant incumbent investment by Edison’s side, who initially feared the safety and viability of high-voltage AC. Despite Edison's strenuous opposition, the superior engineering economics and transmission reach of the AC system ultimately ensured its widespread adoption for the national electric grid.
Related Questions
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