Charles Steinmetz

Charles Steinmetz (1865-1923), German American electrical engineer and inventor, known for his research in alternating current. Charles Proteus Steinmetz was born Karl August Rudolf Steinmetz in Breslau (now Wrocław, Poland). Forced to leave Germany because of his socialist activities, in 1889 he immigrated to the U.S. Four years later he was appointed consulting engineer of the General Electric Company, and in 1902 he became professor of electrophysics at Union College and University, Schenectady, New York, thereafter serving in both positions until his death. Steinmetz is best known for his research in the field of electricity, particularly on the nature and use of alternating current; his work contributed greatly to the utilization of electricity as a source of power and light in industry. Among his many inventions is the metallic electrode arc lamp. See Electrode.