Chapter 65: Electric Light
On February 7, 1867, Ernst is eagerly awaiting the commercial use of the improved electric light. This invention is set to revolutionize the world.
The first electric lamp was invented by the British Humphrey Davy, using two thousand batteries and carbon rods, but it was too bright, emitted excessive heat, and was not durable. In 1854, Henry Goebel, a German immigrant to the United States, created the first practical electric light lasting four hundred hours, but he didn't patent it.
In 1860, the British inventor Joseph Swan made a carbon filament electric lamp. However, due to vacuum technology limitations, it couldn't function for extended periods, and he only patented it in 1878.
Now, the Berlin Electric Power Company, with breakthroughs in vacuum technology, has secured the first commercial patent for mature electric light production. Ernst has installed more than 20 bulbs in his home, which have been running continuously for over ten hours without any issues.
Prince Constantine is impressed and recognizes the enormous potential and profits behind this invention. Ernst and Constantine plan to promote electric light in Berlin first, setting an example for the world.
They demonstrate the electric light to King William I and Crown Prince Frederick, who are equally fascinated by its qualities. Berlin becomes the first city to embrace electric street lighting, paving the way for other cities to follow.
Three days later, Vienna also installs electric lights, under Emperor Franz's decree, after witnessing Berlin's success. The news spreads worldwide, attracting many to see this groundbreaking invention.
The Berlin Electric Power Company gains global recognition and sees its stock price soar, becoming one of Ernst's most valuable assets.
Meanwhile, Ernst is also working on a plan to purchase Alaska from Russia. He has contacted Russian officials who are willing to act as lobbyists in exchange for bribes.
Ernst acknowledges that Alaska may not seem valuable initially but has other plans for the territory.
Tom, Ernst's associate, updates him on the situation in the East African colony. Ernst is pleased that the Sultanate of Zanzibar, which held significant influence in the region, has created an opportunity for his East African colony.
He begins drafting a plan to address the Zanzibar situation and orders Tom to send it to the East African colony for implementation.
Ernst recognizes the importance of securing the seaport's security and is determined to take advantage of this opportunity presented by Zanzibar.
(End of Chapter 65)