Inventions of the Past gathers forty-four historical and popular accounts of technological change, tracing the human imagination from early mechanical devices to the infrastructures of modernity. Its capacious range encompasses biography, technical exposition, social history, educational prose, institutional reports, and reflective essays. Railways, printing, telegraphy, engineering, scientific instruments, and industrial processes emerge not as isolated triumphs but as interconnected tran...

In "Discoveries and Inventions of the Nineteenth Century," Robert Routledge meticulously chronicles the profound innovations that shaped the modern world during this transformative era. Through a clear and accessible narrative style, Routledge delves into the major scientific advancements and influential inventions that emerged between 1800 and 1900, intertwining biographies of pivotal figures with detailed explanations of their contributions. This comprehensive work, characterized by its ...

Published in 1900. From Atoms to Warships and everything in between, Robert Routledge lists a vast and varied illustrated collection of the revolutionary advances in engineering and pioneering discoveries of the 19th century.

First published in 1901. This study presents an account of the remarkable discoveries and inventions which distinguished the nineteenth-century. The author examines an assortment of developments, including that in the sciences, architecture, travel, and communications. This title will be of great interest to students of the history of science and technology.

Why isn't wood weaker that it is? Why isn't steel stronger? Why does glass sometimes shatter and sometimes bend like spring? Why do ships break in half? What is a liquid and is treacle one? All these are questions about the nature of materials. All of them are vital to engineers but also fascinating as scientific problems. During the 250 years up to the 1920s and 1930s they had been answered largely by seeing how materials behaved in practice. But materials continued to do things that they...

A fascinating early 20th Century look at the science of electricity, including some of the interesting and sometimes bizarre uses that early inventors found for the electrical force, such as Edison's electromagnetic pen (a very early form of photocopier), an instrument that could detect the level of starlight, and even (don’t try this one at home kids!) a method for electro-plating lizards!

The purpose of this little book is to present the essential facts of electrical science in a popular and interesting way, as befits the scheme of the series to which it belongs. Electrical phenomena have been observed since the first man viewed one of the most spectacular and magnificent of them all in the thunderstorm, but the services of electricity which we enjoy are the product solely of scientific achievement in the nineteenth century. It is to these services that the main part of the...

In "Marvels of Scientific Invention," Thomas W. Corbin presents a compelling exploration of the innovative strides made in science and technology over the centuries. This work chronicles the evolution of key inventions that have transformed human existence and reflects on their broader societal impacts. Corbin'Äôs prose blends a narrative style with incisive analysis, engaging readers with vibrant descriptions while provoking thoughtful consideration of the ethical implications of scientif...

This issue of the Scientific American Supplement presents a broad survey of scientific and technological advancements shaping the late 19th century. It features articles on mechanical engineering, detailing refinements in steam engines, industrial machinery, and transportation technologies. Electricity remains a major theme, with discussions on its expanding use in lighting, telegraphy, and automation. Advances in chemistry and metallurgy are also highlighted, showcasing new materials and ...

When we read the works of Homer, or Virgil, or Plato, or turn to the later productions of Dante, of Shakespeare, of Milton, and the host of writers and poets who have done so much to instruct and amuse us, and to make our lives good and agreeable, we are apt to look with some disappointment upon present times. And when we turn to the field of art and compare Greek statues and Gothic or Renaissance architecture with our modern efforts, we must feel bound to admit our inferiority to our ance...

This issue of the Scientific American Supplement provides readers with a comprehensive look at the latest scientific and technological advancements of the late 19th century. It features articles on mechanical engineering, discussing improvements in steam engines, industrial machinery, and transportation systems. Electricity remains a key focus, with insights into its expanding applications in lighting, communication, and automation. Developments in chemistry and metallurgy are also covered...

In "Artificial Light: Its Influence upon Civilization," Matthew Luckiesh presents a pioneering exploration of the role artificial lighting has played in shaping modern society. Blending technical analysis with a historical perspective, Luckiesh examines the evolution of illumination technologies from gas lamps to electric lighting, analyzing their profound effects on lifestyle, productivity, and cultural practices. His clear, accessible prose demystifies complex scientific principles, maki...