Explorers & Adventurers · 20th Century
Nikola Tesla’s Last Words
“Unknown — he died alone.”— Nikola Tesla, January 7, 1943
Who Was Nikola Tesla?
Nikola Tesla was a visionary inventor who developed AC electrical systems, the Tesla coil, and laid groundwork for radio technology. He died penniless despite his enormous contributions to civilization.
The Final Moments
Tesla died alone in Room 3327 of the New Yorker Hotel in New York City. A maid discovered his body two days after his death. He had been living in the hotel for years in increasingly destitute circumstances.
Are These Words Verified?
Well-documented that Tesla died alone, with his body discovered two days later by hotel maid Alice Monaghan. No witnesses means no last words were recorded.
Sources
- archive New Yorker Hotel records
- archive Coroner's report
- newspaper Contemporary news accounts
Legacy
Tesla's genius was underappreciated in his lifetime but his reputation has soared posthumously. The Tesla electric car company was named in his honor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Nikola Tesla’s last words?
“Unknown — he died alone.”
How did Nikola Tesla die?
Nikola Tesla died on January 7, 1943 at the age of 86. Cause of death: Coronary thrombosis.
Were Nikola Tesla’s last words documented?
Well-documented that Tesla died alone, with his body discovered two days later by hotel maid Alice Monaghan. No witnesses means no last words were recorded.
More from Explorers & Adventurers
See all →Marie Curie
“I cannot express it.”
Isaac Newton
“I don't know what I may seem to the world. But as to myself I seem to have been only like a boy playing on …”
Christopher Columbus
“Into Thy hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.”
Vasco da Gama
“Unknown — he died of malaria in India.”