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A wonderful combination of history and physics. It is superbly written and contains a wealth of fascinating details. After the historical insights, the physics is explained in a user-friendly, nontechnical way. Denny's wry humor is fun to read and made me laugh out loud. -- Mark Kidger, author of Astronomical Enigmas

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments
Timeline
Introduction
1. Bow and Arrow
2. Waterwheels and Windmills
3. Counterpoise Siege Engines
4. Pendulum Clock Anchor Escapement
5. Centrifugal Governor
6. Inventiveness
Further Reading
Index

About the Author

After earning a Ph.D. in theoretical physics from Edinburgh University, Mark Denny pursued research at Oxford University from 1981 to 1984, then moved into a career in industry. For nearly twenty years he developed radar and sonar systems for several multinational aerospace corporations. He is now retired and lives on Vancouver Island.

Reviews

Denny has produced a book that is both educational and entertaining. Physics World This book will give the reader an appreciation of the effectiveness of ancient technology. It will also be a useful reference for engineering and physics instructors. -- Eugene E. Nalence Science Books and Films User friendly, filled with humor and practicality... not only 'technology wizes' but 'history buffs' and humanists too will enjoy and profit from this book. -- Ilia Stambler European Legacy The subject matter is extremely well described. -- Brian Gee School Science Review A well-written, illustrated, and informative book that is readable to all but the mentally lazy. Choice [ Ingenium] is a good place to learn how they actually worked and how far they could effectively serve the purposes of those who made and used them. -- Alex Keller Technology and Culture