Gavin Weightman Book order

A timely history of the neglected figure of Daniel Sutton--the medical revolutionary who paved the way for present-day vaccination

Looks at the history of five revolutionary inventions: the aeroplane, the television, the mobile phone, the barcode and the personal computer. Weightman explores not only the eccentric personalities behind these inventions but the wider economic, political, technological, and intellectual circumstances that can make or break even the most fabulous of ideas. Working backward from the 'Eureka!' moment, he offers insight into the unusual encounters and bizarre detours taken on the march towards discovery. --From publisher description.

While the discoveries of scientists have provided vital knowledge which has made innovation possible, it is more often than not the amateur who enjoys the "eureka moment" when an invention works for the first time. Weightman tells fascinating stories of struggle, rivalry, and the ingenuity of both famous inventors and hundreds of forgotten people, and offers a fresh take on the making of our modern world.

The narrative centers on a shocking 1885 revelation by W T Stead, who exposed the sale of a thirteen-year-old girl by her mother to a brothel, highlighting the disturbing commodification of innocence. This account, known as the story of the £5 virgin, ignited outrage and became a worldwide sensation, marking it as one of the most significant scandals of the Victorian era. Stead's bold journalism not only captured public attention but also sparked discussions on morality and child exploitation during a time of strict societal norms.

Set against the backdrop of Victorian Britain in the 1870s, the narrative explores the transformative impact of electricity on society. It highlights key figures like Thomas Edison and Rookes Crompton, showcasing innovations that illuminated public spaces and revolutionized daily life. The book delves into the electrification of transportation, the introduction of labor-saving devices, and the industrial modernization during the world wars. Additionally, it addresses the ongoing tensions between environmental concerns and the benefits of electric power, revealing the complex legacy of this technological revolution.

The narrative explores the invention of wireless communication by Guglielmo Marconi, highlighting its impact on historical events. It details how the technology entertained Queen Victoria, played a crucial role in rescuing Titanic survivors, aided in criminal investigations, and sparked the radio revolution, illustrating the profound influence of wireless technology on society.

Exploring the 19th-century ice trade, this book highlights how ice harvested from New England lakes transformed domestic life globally, thanks to its remarkable purity. It delves into the economic and social impacts of this trade, showcasing the innovation and demand that led to ice becoming a crucial commodity, reshaping how people preserved food and enjoyed leisure. The narrative reveals the fascinating history behind this once-overlooked industry and its lasting effects on everyday life.