Famous French inventors have made a big impact on the world. In fact, the invention of the light bulb is commonly associated with these French people. The world might not be a better place without the contributions of these great minds. Some of the most famous French inventors have been portrayed in movies and books. Here are some of the more prominent ones:
Also known as the ‘father of the electric car’, Jean Baptiste Pilon is recognized as one of the most famous French inventors. His creation of the electric motor is attributed to him having read an article written by an English scientist named Robert Temple. After reading his article, he decided to create an improved motor for his automobile. When he designed the first battery powered motor, he patented it and started selling it. Later, he also developed the sewing and aeronautical tools that paved the way for many innovations.
Besides being an inventor, Patience Pedrie is recognized as the first woman mechanic during the Renaissance. She may not have managed to invent many things, but she did introduce a new way of making clothes. While she was working in the store selling fashions to the poor, she noticed that poor women were able to make their own clothes out of cloth they had gathered. This innovative idea later became the basis of the loom and the first sewing machine. Later, she became a well-known patron of the arts and founded a university in Tours.
Known as the ‘father of modern mechanics’, Renaud owes much of his invention to his grandfather. His grandfather invented the metallurgy process that allowed iron to be used in making tools and weapons. The famous French inventor owed much of his early prosperity to the skills of his father. He made sure that his tools were strong and reliable and began to build machines that could work independently.
Also known as the ‘father of chemistry’, Ignatius Carleton set out to develop a better way to find gold. He would go on to discover the refining process and eventually became one of the greatest gold diggers of all time. The great French chemist, Lavoisier, was working on another kind of refining process when he discovered a process for producing carbon dioxide. Later in life, he went on to found the chlorine gas that is widely used today. All these innovations came about while Lavoisier was experimenting with various chemical elements.
In general, the list of the most famous French inventors can be quite long. However, there are only a few who are recognized internationally. The ones listed above are a very short list. There are many more who did not live up to their abilities but at least their achievements are well noted. The United States alone has more than a few of these famous French inventors.