Jimmy Carter

“ With the knowledge that the patent system contributes significantly to technological progress for the benefit of mankind, the United States since then has continually and actively maintained a national patent system even in times of war and rebellion.
This incentive provided inventors has prompted millions of our people to apply great effort and valuable resources, often persevering in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, to create, perfect and bring to the marketplace many inventions which have made our labors more productive and which have contributed to our health and welfare. ”

“ February 11, 1979, is especially significant for celebration as National Inventors' Day because it is the anniversary of the birth of Thomas Alva Edison who one hundred years ago perfected and patented the first practical incandescent lamp, an invention which as we all know dramatically changed the way of life all over the world. ”