Wow! I just happen to be reading the book, "Thunderstruck", by Erik Larson right now.. it's about the invention of wireless communication. Originally named "wireless telegraphy".
Marchese Guglielmo Marconi, an Italian inventor, conducted the first complete transmissions of wireless telegraphs. Using morse code (specifically, the letter "S") he was able to transmit messages from hit attic laboratory to outside his home. Then into the field (300 meters) (in 1895) and then across the field and OVER the hill at the other end. In order to know if the receiver had actually received his message, Marconi would repeatedly send the letter "S" until he heard the person (his brother or brother-in-law, I believe) fire his shotgun as acknowledgement of receipt of the message (1.5 kilometers away!). He eventually developed better technology and was able to send AND receive messages over longer distances, and eventually, continental messages!
This book is really good, I definitely recommend it to anyone. Though, I haven't finished yet. The history of wireless communication is actually very interesting! LOL
On 13 May 1897, Marconi sent the first ever wireless communication over water. It transversed the Bristol Channel from Lavernock Point (South Wales) to Flat Holm Island, a distance of 6 km (3.7 mi). The message simply read, "Are you ready".
Great story and history!
Great question, too! Thanks for this Wisdom Piece.
~*luci*~