A unique A-to-Z reference of brilliance in innovation and invention
Combining engagingly written, well-researched history with the respected imprimatur of Scientific American magazine, this authoritative, accessible reference provides a wide-ranging overview of the inventions, technological advances, and discoveries that have transformed human society throughout our history.
More than 400 entertaining entries explain the details and significance of such varied breakthroughs as the development of agriculture, the ""invention"" of algebra, and the birth of the computer. Special chronological sections divide the entries, providing a unique focus on the intersection of science and technology from early human history to the present. In addition, each section is supplemented by primary source sidebars, which feature excerpts from scientists' diaries, contemporary accounts of new inventions, and various ""In Their Own Words"" sources.
Comprehensive and thoroughly readable, Scientific American Inventions and Discoveries is an indispensable resource for anyone fascinated by the history of science and technology.
Topics include:
aerosol spray * algebra * Archimedes' Principle * barbed wire * canned food * carburetor * circulation of blood * condom * encryption machine * fork * fuel cell * latitude * music synthesizer * positron * radar * steel * television * traffic lights * Heisenberg's uncertainty principle

A quick and accurate tour guide to Florida's military past

"This comprehensive book of Florida forts will shock readers with its historical insight and depth. A must-read for anyone planning a vacation to any of Florida's iconic historical landmarks."--Matthew J. Clavin, author of "Toussaint Louverture and the American Civil War"

"Florida's military past is multi-layered and few books can match this one in demonstrating the complexity of its dimensions."--Joe Knetsch, author of "Fear and Anxiety on the Florida Frontier"

Because of its extensive coastline--the longest of any state--Florida has always been at the forefront of U.S. military defense. The state's unique military history is revealed in its forts and outposts and in the museums maintained at those sites today.
This vivid guidebook focuses on those places that offer more than a simple historical marker to visitors. While there are numerous sites that have been important in the state's military history, "Forts of Florida" highlights the twenty-four locations that still have existing features, whether ruins, reconstructions, or preserved structures. All are open to the public, and many are among the state's most popular tourist destinations, including Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine, Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas, and the Air Museum at the Pensacola Air Station.
Accompanied by historic and contemporary photographs, maps, and engravings, each entry discusses the architecture and context of the site in relation to Florida and U.S. history. The thorough background descriptions will benefit those planning first-time trips, as well as those who have long enjoyed visiting these sites.

While numerous studies have examined Woodrow Wilson's policy of neutrality prior to U.S. entry into World War I, none has focused on the actual merchant ship losses that created the final casus belli. This work focuses on what the president knew and when he knew it concerning the loss of ten ships between February 3 and April 4, 1917. By looking at the specifics, Rodney Carlisle offers new explanations for the reasons that led the president, the cabinet, the public, and Congress to decide for war. "Sovereignty at Sea" not only adds much to our understanding of maritime and diplomatic history during the First World War period but also speaks to contemporary concerns with issues surrounding the U.S. justification for wars.