American Genius

Farnsworth vs. Sarnoff (1x3)

Air date: Jun 08, 2015

The invention of the television was born out of a gritty competition between David Sarnoff and Philo Farnsworth, who both laid stake to a precious claim. Delve into the David vs. Goliath story that led to a media revolution. After sketching his idea for an “electric television” for his high school science teacher, Philo Farnsworth dedicates his life to gaining the knowledge necessary to make his dream a reality. But when RCA tries to buy his patent (and the riches that come with it), Farnsworth and RCA founder David Sarnoff face off; the results of their confrontation will forever change the way we experience the world. Expert interviews include entrepreneur will.i.am, politician and businessman Mitt Romney, and others.