Daily Survival Guide

Today in Survival History
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On this day in 1844, Samuel Morse sent the first telegraph message in the United States. Although best known for his contributions to telegraphy, Morse was also an esteemed painter. During his return journey from studying art in Europe, Morse conceived the idea of an electric telegraph based on the newly discovered electromagnet. He invented the Morse code to enable communication through his new invention, and he obtained financial support from Congress to build the first U.S. telegraph line, from Washington, D.C., to Baltimore, Maryland. After 10 years of legal battles with rival inventors, the U.S. Supreme Court finally established his patent rights, and Morse went on to become a great philanthropist.