“Morse conquered his electrical difficulties although he was only a painter, and I don’t intend to give in either till all is completed.”
- March 3, 1847 – August 2, 1922
- Born in Scotland
- Inventor, scientist, engineer, educator
- Invented the telephone, revolutionized communications technology, and founded Bell Labs
Quote
“Morse conquered his electrical difficulties although he was only a painter, and I don’t intend to give in either till all is completed.”
Explanation
In this quote, Alexander Graham Bell draws a parallel between his own perseverance and the determination shown by Samuel Morse, the inventor of the telegraph. Bell refers to the fact that Morse, despite being a painter by profession, was able to overcome significant technical challenges in developing his electrical telegraph. Bell uses Morse’s success as inspiration, affirming his own commitment to overcoming the challenges he faced in his own work, especially with the telephone. He resolves to not give up until his invention is completed, no matter the obstacles.
Historically, this quote underscores Bell’s tenacity and belief in the power of persistence. Despite facing competition and technical difficulties, Bell remained undeterred, just as Morse had done years earlier. Morse’s transition from the arts to solving complex scientific problems demonstrates that innovation doesn’t always come from traditional experts in the field but from those willing to tackle challenges with determination. Bell’s reference to Morse also highlights a larger trend in the 19th century, where individuals with diverse backgrounds contributed groundbreaking advancements in technology.
In modern times, Bell’s statement serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and the ability to adapt and solve problems regardless of one’s background or the challenges at hand. His belief in resilience is still relevant in fields like entrepreneurship, technology, and science, where new problems are constantly arising and solutions are found through creative problem-solving and determined effort. Today, Morse’s and Bell’s stories continue to inspire anyone facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles in their pursuit of innovation.
