Why is Thomas Edison known as the inventor of the light bulb?

Question

Two Candians, Woodward and Evans, patented it in 1874. Edison on Jan.27,1880.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Woodward_(inventor)

Answer 1

We like to think that Americans are responsible for technological advances like that.  As your question points out, the truth is more complicated.  There were often several people working on an invention at the same time.  Sometimes the one credited with being the original inventor was actually a good marketer.

Answer 2

I always thought that it was the carbonized cotton thread that was used in the first light bulbs. I believe he was the first one to patent the concept!.~M~

Answer 3

Edison was the first to produce a practical light bulb that was one component of a complete, integrated lighting system.

Answer 4

maybe the Canadians didn't have the international patents

Answer 5

Edison tested hundreds of materials for the filament before coming up with tungsten, which made his the first practical light bulb. Any manufacturer hoping to sell light bulbs used Edison's design.