Chester Carlson

Inventor of xerography that revolutionized document duplication

Chester Floyd Carlson (1906-1968) invented xerography in 1938, creating the foundation for modern photocopying. His dry copying process (electrophotography) overcame limitations of messy carbon paper and chemical photography, enabling instant office document reproduction.

After 15 years of rejection by major corporations, Carlson partnered with Haloid Company (later Xerox) to commercialize the technology. The 1959 Xerox 914 became the first automatic office copier, transforming business communication worldwide. Carlson's persistence through 22 patent applications and multiple failures exemplifies innovation against institutional skepticism.

Today, xerography underpins laser printing and digital publishing. Carlson donated over $100 million to philanthropic causes, establishing the National Academy of Engineering through his foundation. His invention fundamentally changed information distribution in the 20th century.