Lives of Boulton and Watt. Principally from the Original Soho Mss
Enriched edition. Comprising also a history of the invention and introduction of the steam engineBy Samuel Smiles
Length16h 14m
About this audiobook
In "Lives of Boulton and Watt. Principally from the Original Soho Mss," Samuel Smiles presents a meticulously crafted narrative that intertwines the lives of two pivotal figures in the Industrial Revolution'—Matthew Boulton and James Watt. Employing a biographical style that is both engaging and informative, Smiles draws extensively from primary sources, notably the Soho manuscripts, providing readers with an authentic glimpse into the entrepreneurial spirit and innovative endeavors that defined this era. The book serves as not only a biography but also a reflection on the socio-economic landscapes of 18th-century Britain, effectively illustrating the transformative impact of Boulton and Watt's partnership on industry and society. Samuel Smiles, a Scottish author and social reformer, was known for championing the virtues of hard work and self-improvement, themes that resonate throughout his writings. His background in engineering, paired with a belief in the power of individual agency, propelled him to document the achievements of Boulton and Watt, as well as their contributions to mechanization and steam power. Smiles' perspective is often colored by his admiration for the pioneering spirit, allowing readers to appreciate the incredible challenges these industrialists overcame. This book is highly recommended for readers interested in the history of technology, entrepreneurship, and the evolution of industrial society. Smiles' work not only honors the legacies of Boulton and Watt but also serves as a motivational testament to the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity, making it an inspiring read for both scholars and general audiences alike.
In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes.
- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.
- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing.
- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.
- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life.
- Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.
- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.
Audiobook details
GenreBiography and Memoir
Length16 hrs 14 mins
Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices
FormateBook with Audio
Publish dateDec 11, 2019
LanguageEnglish
Table of contents
1Introduction
15CHAPTER XV. Watt again visits Cornwall—Invention of the Rotary Motion—The Patent Right again assailed.
2Introduction
16CHAPTER XVI. More Difficulties and more Inventions—Boulton again in Cornwall.
3Synopsis
17CHAPTER XVII. Commercial Politics—The Albion Mills—Riots in Cornwall—Prosperity of Boulton and Watt.
4Historical Context
18CHAPTER XIX. Boulton’s Application of the Steam-engine to Coining.
5PREFACE.
19CHAPTER XX. Prosperity of Soho—Young Boulton and Watt—The Riots—William Murdock.
Show all chaptersShow less
6BEGINNINGS OF THE STEAM-ENGINE: THE EARLY INVENTORS.
20CHAPTER XXI. Application of Steam-power to Navigation—Miller and Symington—Boulton and Watt’s Engine adopted by Fulton.
7CHAPTER III. Captain Savery—His Fire-engine.
21CHAPTER XXII. Declining Years of Boulton and Watt—Bereavements—Gregory Watt—Death of Boulton.
8JAMES WATT: HIS BOYHOOD AND EARLY LIFE: MECHANICAL INSTRUMENT MAKER, SURVEYOR, AND INVENTOR.
22CHAPTER XXIII. Closing Years of James Watt—His Death—Conclusion.
9CHAPTER VII. Watt’s Experiments on Steam—Invents the Separate Condenser.
23INDEX. (pt. 1)
10CHAPTER VIII. Watt’s Connexion with Dr. Roebuck—Watt acts as Surveyor and Engineer.
24INDEX. (pt. 2)
11BOULTON AND WATT, ENGINEERS, BIRMINGHAM.
25Analysis
12CHAPTER XI. Boulton and Watt—Their Partnership.
26Reflection
13CHAPTER XII. Boulton and Watt begin the Manufacture of Steam-engines.
27Memorable Quotes
14CHAPTER XIV. Financial Difficulties—Boulton in Cornwall—Attack and Defence of the Engine Patent.
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