Who is often credited as the "father of cinema"?

Thomas Edison is often credited as the "father of cinema" because of his pioneering work in the development of motion picture technology. His laboratory produced several key inventions that laid the groundwork for the film industry. One of the most significant contributions was the creation of the Kinetoscope, an early film exhibition device that allowed individuals to view moving images.

Edison's collaborations with inventors like William Kennedy Laurie Dickson also led to advancements in film technology, including the development of the first commercially viable film studio. His influence and innovations were instrumental in moving cinema from a novelty to a popular form of entertainment, cementing his legacy in the history of motion pictures.

While other figures like Georges Méliès contributed significantly to the art of filmmaking, particularly in cinematic storytelling and special effects, Edison's contributions were crucial to the technological foundation of the medium itself. This distinction is what often leads to Edison's recognition as the "father of cinema."