In two millenia, our knowledge of the planet and its natural laws and forces has undergone remarkable changes. This unique reference work charts this remarkable intellectual progression. By exploring the physical phenomena that inform our knowledge and summarising historical explanations this Encyclopedia presents the history of the study of the earth from antiquity to the space age. The wide-ranging articles summarise subjects as diverse as geography, imperialism, environmentalism, computers, meterology, ozone formation theories since 1800, scientific rocketry and the Scopes trial.

This edited volume discusses scientific and technological aspects of the history of the oil and gas industry in national and international contexts. The search for oil for industrial uses began in the nineteenth century, the first drills made in Azerbaijan and the United States. This intense search for a substance to become one of the most important energy sources was, many times, based on skill as well as luck, resulting in knowledge and the development of prospecting and exploration technologies. The demand for oil improved expertise in geological science, in areas such as micropaleontology, stratigraphy or sedimentology and informed different disciplines such as geophysics. These contributions made possible not only the discovery of new oil fields but also new applications and methods of exploration. Beyond the scientific and technological aspects, an industry that grew to such considerable size also impacted the political, economic, social, cultural, environmental and diplomatic issues in history. The book approaches these changes in different scales, countries, areas, and perspectives. This edited book appeals to researchers, student, practitioners in various fields from geology and geophysics to history. It is also an important resource for professionals in the oil and gas industry.

This report is intended to inform present and future National Park Service personnel concerning the history, challenges, and circumstances surrounding the development of the New River Gorge National River (NERI) and its sister units Gauley River National Recreation Area (GARI) and Bluestone National Scenic River (BLUE). It provides background understanding of the natural and human histories of the area, of how these have related to administration of the park, and how park administration has developed in interaction with contemporary issues and concerns.