Thomas Crump

Fascinating read for those interested in science and the people who do science. Readers with an elementary knowledge of mathematics and science would find it easier to follow, as the author resorts to technicalities often. Basically about science as it developed in Europe. No decent description about science as it developed in India and China or for that matter anywhere else. Hertz, Marconi and Rutherford are credited with radio transmission...what about JC Bose? Clearly, the author is obsessed with European, particularly, British luminaries. All said, still a good introduction to the leading lights of European physical sciences.… (more)

A bit ploddy, and full of stats, but a very job of doing what he said his intent was: tell about the world of Abraham Lincoln from his birth to the Civil War. He really did this well, in terms of demographics, politics and the social environment. I got out of it what I hoped to. Guess that is a pretty good result. This is the very same time period as the lives of a set of my third great grandparents, whom I may wish to write about in the future. Crump provides a great reference to use, should I follow through on that desire.… (more)