Thomas Edison began conducting experiments during his childhood. To start with, there were hundreds of unsuccessful experiments but Edison eventually invented and patented 2,500 items, including the electric lamp and phonograph. He was determined to “give laughter and light” to people, but, until he actually managed to do so, most people ridiculed him. Without losing hope, Edison attempted over 1,000 unsuccessful experiments in his efforts to make an electric lamp. When people told him he was wasting his time, energy, and money for nothing, Edison exclaimed, “For nothing! Every time I make an experiment, I get new results. Failures are stepping stones to success.” Determined to give people electric lamps, Edison said he’d meet his goal by early 1880. In October, 1879, he created his first electric lamp, and in so doing, received much praise. People realized that Edison’s invention was not affected by rain or wind, remaining constant through bad weather. Just as he had hoped, Edison provided people with light and laughter.