In July 1931, as he turned 75, Nikola Tesla sat down with The New York Times to reflect on his life, achievements, and vision for the future. Though no longer in the spotlight as younger scientists and inventors emerged, Tesla remained as passionate and optimistic about science as ever.
On His Greatest Contribution
Tesla told the interviewer that he considered his work on the alternating current (AC) system his most important gift to humanity. Thanks to AC, electricity could be transmitted efficiently over long distances, powering cities, factories, and homes around the world. “It is my greatest pride,” he noted, “that my system of alternating current has become the standard for the entire globe.”
On Wireless Power
Tesla once again shared his dream of wireless transmission of energy. He explained that it was not only possible but inevitable that electricity would someday be distributed without wires, using the Earth and atmosphere as conductors. Although skeptics doubted him, Tesla insisted that his experiments had already proven the principle, and he predicted that future generations would see its full realization.
On the Future of Science and Technology
Looking ahead, Tesla foresaw incredible advances. He spoke of:
Wireless communication, allowing people to instantly exchange messages across vast distances.
Machines controlled at a distance, hinting at a world of robotics and automation.
New sources of energy, which he believed science would unlock to meet humanity’s growing needs.
Tesla’s Optimism
Even at 75, Tesla’s mind was full of visions of what was to come. He admitted that not all of his projects had been completed, but he expressed unshakable faith that humanity would continue along the path he had helped set. His words conveyed both pride in his past achievements and hope for a future shaped by science and discovery.
👉 This 1931 interview remains one of the clearest windows into Tesla’s thinking late in life — a mixture of reflection, bold predictions, and an unwavering belief that technology could uplift the entire human race.
