The spread of civilisation may be likened to a fire; first, a feeble spark, next a flickering flame, then a mighty blaze, ever increasing in speed and power.

He found the time there frustrating because of conflicts between him and the other Westinghouse engineers over how to best implement AC power. Tesla's radio wave experiments in 1896 were conducted in Gerlach Hotel (later renamed The Radio Wave building) where he resided. This included using high-voltage high-frequency alternating current to light a wireless gas-discharge lamp.

He died penniless and in debt on 7 January 1943. Tesla's achievements and his abilities as a showman demonstrating his seemingly miraculous inventions made him world-famous.