Heinrich Hertz
1857–1894 · German · Victorian Era
Known for: First to prove electromagnetic waves exist, confirming Maxwell's theory and enabling radio
Heinrich Hertz proved that electromagnetic waves are real—not just a mathematical abstraction in Maxwell's equations. His experiments conclusively demonstrated that these waves travel at the speed of light and can be reflected and refracted. When asked about practical applications, he reportedly said 'It's of no use whatsoever'—possibly the worst prediction in the history of science.
He died of Wegener's granulomatosis at just 36, never living to see radio, television, wifi, or any of the technologies his discovery made possible. The unit of frequency (hertz) is named after him.
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