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Dealers of Lightning

480 pages, 1999

Takeaways
Description

Dealers of Lightning, by Michael Hiltzik, is an analysis of the legendary Xerox PARC--a collection of eccentric young inventors brought together by Xerox Corporation at a facility in Palo Alto, California, during the mind-blowing intellectual ferment of the seventies and eighties. 

Based on extensive interviews with the scientists, engineers, administrators, and corporate executives who lived the story, Dealers of Lightning takes the reader on a journey from Parc's beginnings in a dusty, abandoned building at the edge of the Stanford University campus to its triumph as a hothouse of ideas that spawned not only the first personal computer but the Windows-style graphical user interface and a great deal more.

The Birth of Xerox PARC

In 'Dealers of Lightning', Michael A. Hiltzik explores the birth of Xerox PARC, a research center that was instrumental in the development of modern computing. It's a fascinating look into the early days of tech innovation.

The Power of Collaboration

Hiltzik highlights the importance of collaboration in innovation. The team at Xerox PARC, despite their differences, worked together to create groundbreaking technology. It's a great reminder that teamwork can lead to amazing results.

The Impact of Xerox PARC

The book shows how Xerox PARC's innovations have shaped the tech world. From the graphical user interface to the Ethernet, their inventions are still used today. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the history of technology.

The Challenges of Innovation

Dealers of Lightning also explores the challenges faced by innovators. Despite their success, the team at Xerox PARC struggled with corporate politics and missed opportunities. It's a valuable lesson for anyone in the tech industry.

The Human Side of Tech

Hiltzik doesn't just focus on the technology, he also delves into the lives of the people behind it. The book offers a unique look into the human side of tech innovation, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the tech world.

Quotes 5

Dealers of Lightning is a riveting narrative that captures the spirit and intensity of the hyper-inventive atmosphere at Xerox PARC.

Bill GatesBill Gates - Microsoft Co-founder

Hiltzik's Dealers of Lightning is a fascinating journey into the creative process of invention.

Walter IsaacsonWalter Isaacson - Biographer, Journalist

Dealers of Lightning is a profound exploration of the magic of innovation and the power of human imagination.

Steve JobsSteve Jobs - Apple Co-founder

Dealers of Lightning is a captivating account of the birth of the digital age. It's a must-read for anyone interested in innovation.

Elon MuskElon Musk - Tesla CEO

Dealers of Lightning is a compelling narrative that offers valuable insights into the process of technological innovation.

Mark ZuckerbergMark Zuckerberg - Facebook CEO
Bill GatesWalter IsaacsonSteve JobsElon MuskMark Zuckerberg

Recommendations

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