Lives of the Engineers (eBook)

The Locomotive. George and Robert Stephenson

Samuel Smiles (Autor)

eBook Download: EPUB

2022
375 Seiten
DigiCat (Verlag)
859-654725417-1 (EAN)

Infos

In "Lives of the Engineers," Samuel Smiles presents a compelling narrative that intertwines biography with engineering history, illuminating the lives and contributions of prominent figures in the field. Employing a poignant literary style that combines anecdotal storytelling with moralistic overtones, Smiles explores themes of perseverance, innovation, and the societal impact of engineering advancements. His work reflects the Victorian era's fascination with progress and the belief in the individual's capacity for self-improvement, positioning engineers not merely as technicians but as pivotal architects of modern civilization. Samuel Smiles, a Scottish author and reformer, was deeply influenced by the socio-economic changes of the 19th century, particularly the Industrial Revolution. His background in medicine and his fervent belief in the virtues of hard work and self-help shaped his approach to biographical writing. Smiles' own life experiences and the challenges he faced informed his admiration for those who overcame adversity to achieve greatness, making him a natural chronicler of the engineers' journeys. "Lives of the Engineers" is recommended for readers interested in the intersections of biography, technology, and society. It serves as both an inspiration and a historical document, illuminating the essential role of engineers in shaping our contemporary world. Smiles' exploration of personal narratives will resonate with those who appreciate stories of resilience and ingenuity.

Autor

Samuel Smiles (1812–1904) was a Scottish author and reformer who is predominantly acclaimed for his promotion of self-help and individual responsibility, characteristics that were central to Victorian morals and Liberalism. Born in Haddington, East Lothian, Smiles pursued a career in medicine but eventually turned towards journalism and writing, fervently articulating his philosophies on societal progress through personal endeavor. He is most noted for his 1859 book, 'Self-Help; with Illustrations of Character and Conduct,' which expounded the virtues of thrift and self-improvement, exerting an extensive influence in its era and becoming a bestseller. Yet, another considerable contribution Smiles made to literature was through his 'Lives of the Engineers' published initially in volumes during the 1860s, chronicling the biographies of significant figures in the engineering field such as George and Robert Stephenson, and James Watt. This work was a testament to Smiles's narrative prowess, adeptly marrying historical facts with engaging personal stories, thus rendering technical subjects captivating to a general audience. The book underscored the importance of industrial and technological advances, as well as the individual genius and indefatigable spirit of the engineers who propelled society forward. Smiles's literary style combined empirical data with a narrative flair, and his writings did not just narrate lives but posited role models for the emerging middle class. His works continue to be referenced for their historical value and their insights into the nature of Victorian society and the ethos of self-improvement that characterized it.

Produkt-Details

• Erscheint lt. Verlag: 4.9.2022
• Verlagsort: Prague
• Sprache: englisch
• Themenwelt: Sachbuch/Ratgeber ► Natur / Technik ► Technik
• Themenwelt: Geisteswissenschaften ► Geschichte
• Schlagworte: 1781-1848 • 1803-1859 • 19th century achievements • 19th century technology • Biographical accounts • Biographies of Stephenson • British engineering pioneers • british industrial history • Career struggles • engineering achievements • engineering biographies • Engineering History • famous engineers • George • Great Britain • historical engineers • historical innovators • History • Industrial progress narratives • Industrial Revolution • industrial revolution biography • industrial revolution stories • innovation in history • Innovative inventors • inventor biographies • Railroads • Robert • Samuel Smiles books • Social reform insights • Steam locomotive history • Stephenson • technical perseverance • technological advancements history • technology pioneers • Victorian engineers • victorian era engineering