Tragic Sacrifice: The Life and Legacy of Edwin Howard Armstrong, the Inventor of FM Radio
Joel Whitley stumbles into a lesser-known chapter in the history of radio and finds the untold story of Edwin Howard Armstrong, the inventor of FM radio. This article delves into Armstrong's journey, his struggles, and the ultimate price he paid for his revolutionary invention.
The Unrecognized Genius
In the world of inventors, the name Edwin Howard Armstrong is one that remains tucked away in a dark corner, known by few. Despite inventing something that would go on to have a global impact – FMRadio – his contributions are often overshadowed by other luminaries in the field. This article aims to uncover the story of this forgotten genius and the Radio Wars he fought.
A Life of Innovation and Adversity
The journey of Edwin Howard Armstrong is a testament to both ingenuity and perseverance. Known for his inventive prowess, Armstrong's magnum opus – FM radio – brought him both blessings and curses. His long-time friend and head of RCA, David Sarnoff, initially backed his work. However, when Armstrong presented his finished product to Sarnoff, the head of RCA was unimpressed by its complexity.
Determined to take his invention forward, Armstrong participated in a demonstration for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Impressed by his presentation, the FCC decided to create a commercial FM service, setting the stage for the Radio Wars. RCA, realizing the threat to its dominance in the radio industry, moved to sabotage Armstrong's efforts, leading to a grueling legal battle that drained not only his resources but also his mental and emotional well-being.
The Personal Toll
Beyond the professional challenges, Armstrong's personal life was also deeply affected. He married Esther Marion MacInnis in the early 1920s, a period marked by passionate moments and innovative endeavors. Armstrong would scale high towers for her, racing sports cars, and even gifting her the first portable radio. However, the constant legal battles and the financial strain began to take their toll on their marriage.
The spark in their marriage gradually diminished as the legal battle continued year after year. Financial and emotional pressures led to a devastating climax when Esther Marion threw herself into a river and spent time in a mental hospital. A particularly heated argument resulted in Armstrong grabbing a poker and swinging it at her arm, leading to a permanent estrangement and separation. In a poignant letter, Armstrong expressed his deep regret and sorrow about never being able to see his wife again before his untimely death.
The Ultimate Sacrifice
Tragically, Edwin Howard Armstrong took his own life three months after their separation. His legacy, though less recognized during his lifetime, is awe-inspiring. By the 1980s, countries from the USA to Australia had largely switched from AM to FM radio, recognizing its improved quality and cheaper cost.
Armstrong's wife, Esther Marion MacInnis, continued the legal fight and eventually won against companies like RCA and Motorola, establishing Edwin as the inventor of FM radio. She honored his memory by establishing awards in his name and founding the Armstrong Memorial Research Foundation. Even to this day, New York used the tower Armstrong built as a temporary transmitter for their television stations during the September 11 attacks, underscoring the enduring impact of his invention.
Through sacrifice and perseverance, Armstrong's legacy lives on, a reminder of the high price that some inventors paid for their revolutionary work.