General Electric Company (GE) History Quiz

General Electric Company (GE)

The General Electric Company (GE), commonly known as GE, is an American multinational conglomerate incorporated on April 9, 1892. It was founded by Thomas Edison to develop a practical electric light bulb and soon became a major developer of electrical equipment, appliances, and later medical imaging technology. Today, GE remains one of the largest corporations in the United States. In 2020, Forbes ranked it #7 among U.S. companies with more than $5 trillion in annual sales.

History

Thomas A. Edison, one of America's greatest inventors, established GE in 1892 after his successful development of the incandescent lamp. He put together a team of engineers and scientists that would become the nucleus of the new company. Over the years, GE has grown into a Fortune 50 company, employing over 150,000 employees worldwide.

Early Years

In its early days, GE produced and distributed electric lighting systems, power machinery, and other electrical equipment. In 1892, GE introduced the first house wired entirely for electric lights in New York City. By 1901, GE had acquired Thomas Edison Inc., including several key patents.

Expansion

After World War I ended, GE expanded rapidly. In 1926, the company opened the Lynn, Massachusetts, plant dedicated to producing household appliances. During this time, GE also developed the first all-electric refrigerator and vacuum cleaner.

Post-War Era

Post-World War II, GE continued to grow. In 1945, the company introduced the first gas turbine engine, which led to jet engines for airplanes. In 1957, GE launched the first commercial color TV, and in 1959, the company delivered its first jet engine.

Products and Services

GE has a wide range of businesses, from lighting and energy to transportation and finance. Some of its key businesses include:

Aviation

GE Aviation is one of the world's leading manufacturers of jet engines and systems for commercial, military, business and general aviation aircraft. Its products include engines for Airbus, Boeing, and other major aircraft manufacturers.

Lighting

GE Lighting is a leader in the development and manufacturing of energy-efficient light sources, including LED lighting solutions for homes, businesses, and industries.

Energy

GE Energy provides innovative technologies and services to the energy industry, with a focus on renewable energy and energy efficiency.

Healthcare

GE Healthcare is a leader in medical imaging and information technologies.

Transportation

GE Transportation provides products and services for the rail industry, including locomotives, signaling systems, and transportation technology.

Capital

GE Capital provides financial services to consumers and businesses worldwide.

Major Achievements

Over the years, GE has achieved numerous milestones. Some of the company's major achievements include:

In 1892, GE was founded by Thomas Edison to develop a practical electric light bulb.
In 1893, GE became the first American company to manufacture and sell electric light bulbs.
In 1894, GE invented the carbon filament light bulb.
In 1901, GE acquired Thomas Edison Inc., including several key patents.
In 1911, GE introduced the first commercial electric dishwasher.
In 1926, GE opened the Lynn, Massachusetts, plant dedicated to producing household appliances.
In 1930, GE introduced the first electric washer.
In 1942, GE invented the first synthetic rubber.
In 1957, GE launched the first commercial color TV.
In 1959, GE delivered its first jet engine.
In 1968, GE's nuclear division became a billion-dollar business.
In 1995, GE spun off its appliance division to form a separate company called DELCO Appliance.
In 1996, GE spun off its lighting division to form a separate company called GE Lighting.
In 2000, GE spun off its aircraft engine division to form a separate company called GE Aircraft Engines.
In 2001, GE sold its home appliance division to a consortium of investors for $2.5 billion.

Current Status

As of 2024, GE is a diverse organization with a strong focus on innovation and sustainability. The company has a presence in more than 150 countries and operates through its businesses in energy, healthcare, transportation, and capital finance. GE is committed to creating a more sustainable world, and its products and services contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Conclusion

GE has a rich history of innovation and has played a significant role in the development of the electric light bulb, household appliances, and numerous other technologies. Today, GE continues to be a leader in various industries, including aviation, energy, healthcare, and transportation, with a focus on sustainability and a commitment to creating a better world for future generations.