Edward Teller Biography - Childhood, Life Achievements & Timeline
Ethan Hayes
Updated on January 17, 2026
Edward Teller Biography
(physicist)Birthday: January 15, 1908 (Capricorn)
Born In: Budapest, Hungary
Advanced SearchA controversial figure and one of the most brilliant nuclear and molecular physicists, Edward Teller left an unparalleled legacy in the field of science. Hailed as the ‘the father of the hydrogen bomb’, Teller was one of the most imaginative and creative physicists. He holds a significant position in the development of nuclear energy and has made a major contribution in the fields of nuclear physics, molecular physics and spectroscopy. This weapons research pioneer, whose work on nuclear science was of crucial importance, played a key role in the American War effort. He advocated nuclear energy development, proposed the need for a strong nuclear arsenal and the need for a vigorous nuclear testing program in the country. He also helped to create nuclear reactor safety standards. He also investigated and proposed non-military uses of nuclear explosives and also advised Israel on nuclear matters. To learn more interesting facts about his childhood, personal life and professional achievements in the field of science, nuclear energy and nuclear technology, scroll down and continue to read this biography.
Quick FactsDied At Age: 95
Family:Spouse/Ex-: Augusta Maria
father: Max Teller
mother: Ilona
Born Country: United States
Quotes By Edward Teller Atheists
Died on: September 9, 2003
place of death: Stanford, California, United States
City: Budapest, Hungary
Founder/Co-Founder: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL)
discoveries/inventions: Thermonuclear Weapon
More Factseducation: University of Karlsruhe, University of Leipzig, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
awards: 1986 - United States Military Academy's Sylvanus Thayer Award
1958 - Albert Einstein Award
1962 - Enrico Fermi Award
1975 - Harvey Prize
1991 - Ig Nobel Prizes for Peace in recognition
1961 - Time Persons of the Year
- National Medal of Science
- Presidential Medal of Freedom
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American CelebritiesInventorsPhysicistsAmerican MenMale Scientists Childhood & Early LifeEdward Teller was born in Budapest, Hungary to Jewish parents, Max Teller, who was an attorney and Ilona Teller, a pianist.In 1928, he graduated from the University of Karlsruhe with a BS degree in Chemical Engineering. He later obtained his Ph.D. in physics from the University of Leipzig.In 1935, he moved to the United States of America and worked as physics Professor at the George Washington University, where he taught until 1941.