d) Thomas Edison

Thomas Edison, the prolific inventor, significantly impacted the Gilded Age with his over 1,000 patents. His inventions, such as the electric light bulb, phonograph, and motion picture camera, revolutionized daily life and industries. Edison’s work in developing electric power distribution was particularly transformative, leading to widespread electrification and the birth of the modern age. His innovations laid the foundation for many aspects of contemporary life and technology.