Tom Swift Sr. (Original)

Thomas A. Swift Sr. is an American inventor and scientist. He is the main protagonist of the Tom Swift series, published by Grosset & Dunlap between 1910 and 1941.

Biography
Tom Swift was born in Shopton, New York to Barton and Anne Swift. Early in life he displays the characteristics of a child prodigy. His first invention is a modification of a motorcycle. He founds a company, Swift Enterprises to manufacture his inventions.

During the series, Swift marries Mary Nestor, and later becomes the father to Tom Jr and Sandy. Tom Jr also becomes an inventor at a young age, and Tom Sr. accompanies his son on several of his expeditions.

Legacy
Many modern day scientists and engineers have credited the Tom Swift series as inspiration. The Taser (abbreviation for Thomas A. Swift Electric Rifle) is named after the character.