History of Science and Technology

The Cambridge Dictionary of Scientists is an invaluable one-stop reference book for anyone wanting a quick but reliable account of the life and work of those whose contributions have changed the course of science throughout history. This alphabetically organized, illustrated biographical dictionary covers over 1300 key scientists from more than 38 countries whose work has helped shape modern science. Fields covered include physics, chemistry, biology, geology, astronomy, mathematics, medicine, meteorology and technology - and special attention is paid to those pioneer women whose achievements and example opened the way to scientific careers for their fellow women. Interspersed with illustrations in the form of diagrams, maps and tables, and with special panel features, this book is a clear and accessible guide to the world's prominent scientific personalities.

From the story behind Einstein's revolutionary theory of relativity to Oppenheimer's opposition to U.S. construction of the hydrogen bomb, from the prejudice against women that barred Lise Meitner from working in a major laboratory to the false nose worn by Tycho Brahe after his own was cut off in a duel, the lives of the world's great scientists form a fascinating backdrop to their stunning achievements. This volume contains over 1,200 comprehensive and accessible introductions to the visionary scholars of astronomy, chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, engineering and technology, and geology. In addition to recounting basic biographical information, each entry details the significance of each scientist's landmark contributions while providing intriguing insights into the complicated process--including meditation, observation, experimentation, exploration, debate, and synthesis--that culminated in the theories and discoveries that often define our understanding of the world around us.

"There is very little reference material on black scientists in the US and even less that includes black women scientists. This book fills a void... " --Choice "... a valuable new survey of a social group almost universally neglected by chroniclers of American culture... [an] admirable book... " --San Francisco Examiner "... an illuminating collection of more than 100 profiles... " --Publishers Weekly This pathbreaking book goes beyond the lip-service traditionally paid to Black women scientists and illuminates their scientific contributions, struggles, strategies, and triumphs. Drawn heavily from primary sources, Warren's original reference guide includes biographies of more than 100 Black women scientists in fields from anatomy and mathematics to psychology and zoology.

This four-volume set profiles some of the 20th century's most prolific scientists, both living and deceased. Scientists from around the world are featured, including 225 female scientists, nearly 150 Asian-, African-, Hispanic-, and Native North American scientists, as well as nearly 75 scientists from countries outside Western Europe and North America. Outstanding individuals covered include: British chemist Dorothy Crowfoot-Hodgkin; Austrian zoologist Konrad Lorenz; and French AIDS researcher Luc Montagnier. Entries are arranged alphabetically to assist researchers locate specific individuals quickly, and each 750-2500 word essay provides personal and career information, including a list of major writings and resources for further information.

Features 25 different scientists and the ideas which may not have made them famous, but made history... Typically, we remember our greatest scientists from one single invention, one new formula or one incredible breakthrough. This narrow perspective does not give justice to the versatility of many scientists who also earned a reputation in other areas of science. James Watt, for instance, is known for inventing the steam engine, yet most people do not know that he also invented the copier. Alexander Graham Bell of course invented the telephone, but only few know that he invented artificial breathing equipment, a prototype of the 'iron lung'. Edmond Halley, whose name is associated with the comet that visits Earth every 75 years, produced the first mortality tables, used for life insurances. This entertaining book is aimed at anyone who enjoys reading about inventions and discoveries by the most creative minds. Detailed illustrations of the forgotten designs and ideas enrich the work throughout.

Engineering transformed the world completely between the 17th and 21st centuries. Remarkable Engineers tells the stories of 51 of the key pioneers in this transformation, from the designers and builders of the world's railways, bridges and aeroplanes, to the founders of the modern electronics and communications revolutions. The focus throughout is on their varied life stories, and engineering and scientific detail is kept to a minimum. Engineer profiles are organized chronologically, inviting readers with an interest in engineering to follow the path by which these remarkable engineers utterly changed our lives.

This is a biography which explores the career of computer visionary Grace Murray Hopper, whose innovative work in programming laid the foundations for the user-friendliness of today's personal computers.

In this thought-provoking and heartbreaking memoir, an award-winning writer tells the story of his father, John Stanley Ford, the first black software engineer at IBM, revealing how racism insidiously affected his father's view of himself and their relationship. In 1947, Thomas J. Watson set out to find the best and brightest minds for IBM. At City College he met young accounting student John Stanley Ford and hired him to become IBM's first black software engineer. But not all of the company's white employees refused to accept a black colleague and did everything in their power to humiliate, subvert, and undermine Ford. Yet Ford would not quit. Viewing the job as the opportunity of a lifetime, he comported himself with dignity and professionalism, and relied on his community and his "street smarts" to succeed. He did not know that his hiring was meant to distract from IBM's dubious business practices, including its involvement in the Holocaust, eugenics, and apartheid.

Outlines the English mathematician's efforts in devising a programmable calculating machine, his work in cracking the Nazi Enigma code, and how the revelation of his homosexuality led to his tragic imprisonment and suicide.