No, Thomas Edison did not own slaves. His lifetime spanned from 1847 to 1931, a period during which slavery was abolished in the United States after the Civil War.
However, it is important to recognize that while Edison did not own slaves, he lived in a time of deep racial and social inequalities. His inventions and entrepreneurial spirit contributed significantly to American industry, but the larger context of race relations during his time cannot be ignored. Edison had workers of various backgrounds in his laboratories, but accusations regarding his treatment of African American workers and his business practices often arise in discussions about his legacy.
In summary, while Edison himself did not have slaves, his life and work were undoubtedly influenced by the prevailing social conditions of his time, including the aftermath of slavery in America.