1854-1899

German-American Inventor

Ottmar Mergenthaler revolutionized the distribution of data. His Linotype machine expanded the length of newspapers, which made more information available to the reading public.

Ottmar Mergenthaler was born in 1854 in what would eventually become part of the nation of Germany. His family background prepared him well for the life of an inventor. It created an early love of education and instilled the qualities of self-discipline and curiosity. Ottmar began his education at the school where his father taught. He was exposed to a strong German curriculum, which included an emphasis on science and technology. At home the Mergenthaler children were expected to help with the daily chores. This helped him to develop a disciplined mind and spirit.

When he reached the age of 14 he was expected to begin the training that would prepare him for a teaching career. Ottmar informed his parents that...