When did George Eastman secure the patent for the camera utilizing his new flexible film roll system?
Answer
September 4, 1888
The theoretical and engineering work to create the flexible film culminated in a marketable reality secured by a patent filing on September 4, 1888. This date marks the legal solidification of Eastman's control over the essential enabling technology—the camera designed specifically around the use of the continuous film roll. This patent protected the integrated system that allowed for the 100-exposure format and the subsequent mail-in service model that defined early Kodak success.

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