The Life and Times of Nikola Tesla

Description

This program will not be recorded.

This course traces Nikola Tesla's life and innovations, from his early years and university studies in Graz and Prague to his groundbreaking work in electricity and wireless technology. We will explore his collaborations and rivalries, including his work with Thomas Edison, the "War of the Currents" between AC and DC power and his partnership with George Westinghouse, which led to the lighting of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair.

Key topics include Tesla's telautomaton invention, his wireless experiments and his race against Marconi in developing radio. We will examine the Wardenclyffe-Tesla's ambitious wireless transmission tower, his work during World War I with Telefunken and his interactions with Franklin Roosevelt. We will conclude with Tesla's later-life invention of the particle beam weapon, his negotiations to sell it to the Allies during World War II and the mystery surrounding his secret papers after his death.

About the Osher Online Program

Osher Online programs are provided to OLLI at MSU from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Experience shared online presentations with OLLI members from coast to coast! As part of the Osher Online program, OLLI at MSU members will enjoy national speakers and interact with fellow OLLI members nationwide.

Scholarship

Apply for a needs-based scholarship to take this offering.

Meet the Instructor