United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) ; From the first U.S. patent to the next 250 years of American innovation
"Join the USPTO as we commemorate the 236th anniversary of the first U.S. patent and celebrate 250 years of American innovation. Join us virtually on August 4, 2026, from 1-2 p.m. ET.
What you will learn:
- The history of the first U.S. patent
- How the patent system works today
- Resources available to inventors and small businesses
- How American inventors have shaped the nation over the past 250 years
On July 31, 1790, the United States granted the first U.S. patent to Samuel Hopkins for an improved process for making potash. This patent, signed by George Washington, was the first of nearly 13 million patents the U.S. government has granted.
This program will connect that historic milestone to the present day. Speakers will explore the origins of the patent system, how it supports innovation today, and how inventors, entrepreneurs, and small businesses can use USPTO resources.
This event is part of the agency’s efforts to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary and highlight the important role of intellectual property in our nation’s growth."
