Which U.S. award did Thomas Edison receive in 1928?

Thomas Edison received the Congressional Gold Medal in 1928.

The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors awarded by the United States Congress. It recognizes people whose achievements have had a major impact on American history, culture, or public life. Edison received the honor in recognition of his contributions to invention and technological development.

Edison had already become an internationally famous inventor by this time. His work on electric lighting, electrical power distribution, sound recording, and motion pictures had influenced both industry and daily life. The 1928 award came near the end of his career, when he was regarded as a national symbol of American ingenuity.

The Congressional Gold Medal is distinct from the Medal of Honor, which is a military decoration, and from later science awards such as the National Medal of Science. Edison’s 1928 recognition came specifically from Congress.