Technology in America: A Brief History

This textbook explores the history of technology in America from the 1600s to the 21st century, examining how society, culture, politics, and economics have influenced technological advances and their impact on American society. It connects various phenomena such as colonial printing presses, early photographs, and high-tech advances in biotechnology with the American Revolution, the creation of an American character, and the desire for individual autonomy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 410 pages
Publication date: 23 April 2018
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In a comprehensive and extensively revised new edition, this highly successful textbook provides a comprehensive survey of the history of technology in America, spanning from the 1600s to the 21st century. Authored by Alan I. Marcus and Howard P. Segal, the book delves into the profound impact of society, culture, politics, and economics on technological advancements, while also situating the evolution of American technology within the broader framework of the development of systems such as transportation and communications. This unique work establishes connections between seemingly disparate phenomena, such as colonial printing presses, the American Revolution, early photographs, and high-tech advances in biotechnology, revealing the intricate interplay between these elements and shaping the course of American history.

This textbook is an invaluable resource for undergraduate and postgraduate students studying the history of technology, the history of science, and American history. It offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the technological developments, societal influences, and cultural transformations that have shaped the United States throughout its history. By examining the interplay between technology, society, and the broader historical context, the book provides students with a deeper understanding of the complex and dynamic forces that have shaped the nation's development.

The book is organized into chronological chapters, each dedicated to a specific period or theme in the history of American technology. The authors begin by tracing the early technological advancements in the colonial era, such as the printing press and the development of navigational tools. They then move on to explore the Industrial Revolution, which marked a significant turning point in American history, with the introduction of mechanized production and the rise of industrial capitalism.

Throughout the book, the authors emphasize the role of society, culture, politics, and economics in shaping technological advancements. They discuss how social movements, cultural trends, and political decisions have influenced the development of new technologies, such as the telegraph, the telephone, and the Internet. They also explore the impact of technological innovations on American society, including their effects on labor, education, and social structures.

In addition to its historical analysis, the book also provides insights into the current state of technology in America and its implications for the future. The authors discuss the challenges and opportunities posed by emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy, and how they are shaping the economic, social, and environmental landscape of the nation.

One of the key strengths of this textbook is its ability to bring together a wide range of historical sources and perspectives. The authors draw on a diverse array of primary and secondary materials, including historical documents, scientific journals, and popular literature, to provide a comprehensive and balanced account of the history of American technology. This approach ensures that students have access to a wealth of information and insights, allowing them to develop a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Another notable feature of the book is its accessibility to students with varying levels of academic background and expertise. The authors have written in a clear and concise manner, using straightforward language and engaging examples to illustrate complex concepts and historical events. This makes the book suitable for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, and it can be used as a standalone text or as a supplement to other courses in the history of technology, science, and American history.

In conclusion, this comprehensive and extensively revised new edition of The History of Technology in America is an essential resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in understanding the complex and dynamic relationship between technology, society, and history. By providing a comprehensive survey of the history of technology in America, from the colonial era to the present day, the book offers a valuable perspective on the development of the nation and its place in the global technological landscape. Whether you are an undergraduate or postgraduate student, a historian, or simply a curious reader, this book will provide you with a wealth of information and insights that will enhance your understanding of the past and shape your perspective on the future.

Weight: 674g
Dimension: 239 x 165 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781137334855
Edition number: 3rd ed. 2018