Kodak Film Camera Is Patented and Trademarked
The Kodak film camera, patented and trademarked by George Eastman on September 4, 1888, marked a significant milestone in the history of photography. Eastman, born in 1854, revolutionized the field by introducing roll film, which made photography more accessible to the general public. Prior to his innovations, photography was primarily the domain of affluent enthusiasts. The roll-film camera designed by Eastman allowed for easier handling and loading, paving the way for the widespread adoption of photography. On the same day he patented the camera, Eastman registered the iconic Kodak trademark, which would become synonymous with photography. In 1892, he established the Eastman Kodak Company, which grew into a major corporation, producing affordable film and cameras for millions worldwide. Beyond his business contributions, Eastman was also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the arts, although he faced personal challenges that led to his tragic death in 1932. The legacy of Kodak continues to influence photography today, highlighting the impact of Eastman's innovations on visual culture.
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Kodak Film Camera Is Patented and Trademarked
Kodak Film Camera Is Patented and Trademarked
On September 4, 1888, George Eastman patented his new roll-film camera and also registered his new trademark, Kodak. Born on July 12, 1854, in Waterville, New York, he became a pioneer in the field of photography, which had experienced many advances during the 19th century but was still largely reserved for well-to-do enthusiasts. Eastman not only invented roll film in 1884—that is, a strip of photographic film wound into a roll that could easily be inserted into a camera— but in 1888 he also invented a new type of camera specifically designed for this kind of film. He patented this camera on September 4, 1888, and on this same day registered the now famous trademark name Kodak. In 1892 Eastman formed the Eastman Kodak Company, which went on to become one of America's largest corporations by manufacturing inexpensive film and cameras for millions of new photography enthusiasts around the world. He became a prominent philanthropist in his later years, contributing millions of dollars to organizations such as his newly established Eastman School of Music, but he committed suicide on March 14, 1932, at his home in Rochester, New York.