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The Map That Changed the World
368 pages, 2009
From the author of the bestselling The Professor and the Madman comes the fascinating story of William Smith, the orphaned son of an English country blacksmith, who became obsessed with creating the world's first geological map and ultimately became the father of modern geology.
In 1793 William Smith, a canal digger, made a startling discovery that was to turn the fledgling science of the history of the earth – and a central plank of established Christian religion – on its head. He noticed that the rocks he was excavating were arranged in layers; more important, he could see quite clearly that the fossils found in one layer were very different from those found in another.
And out of that realization came an epiphany: that by following the fossils, one could trace layers of rocks as they dipped and rose and fell – clear across England and, indeed, clear across the world.
Determined to publish his profoundly important discovery by creating a map that would display the hidden underside of England, he spent twenty years traveling the length and breadth of the kingdom by stagecoach and on foot, studying rock outcrops and fossils, piecing together the image of this unseen universe.
In 'The Map That Changed the World', Simon Winchester tells the story of William Smith, a man who never gave up on his dream. Despite facing numerous challenges, Smith's determination led him to create the first geological map, revolutionizing the field of geology. This book encourages us to keep pushing, no matter the obstacles we face.
Winchester's book takes us on a journey through the birth of modern geology. Smith's map was a groundbreaking achievement that laid the foundation for our understanding of the Earth's layers and the history hidden within them. If you're curious about how we came to understand the world beneath our feet, this book is a must-read.
The book explores how one man's vision can change the world. Smith, a canal digger, used his observations to create a map that would revolutionize science. His story is a testament to the power of curiosity and the impact one person can have on the world.
Simon Winchester's book isn't just about geology - it's also about the society in which Smith lived. The author paints a vivid picture of 19th-century England, exploring how societal attitudes towards science and class influenced Smith's work. It's a fascinating look into the intersection of science and society.
Finally, 'The Map That Changed the World' reminds us of the importance of recognizing unsung heroes. Smith's contributions to geology were largely overlooked during his lifetime, but his work has had a lasting impact. The book encourages us to appreciate the often overlooked individuals who have shaped our understanding of the world.
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Simon Winchester's The Map That Changed the World is an utterly captivating saga about the creation of the world's first geological map and the man who created it.
Bill Bryson - Bestselling AuthorWinchester brings the era to life, he's a master storyteller.
Richard Fortey - British PaleontologistA compelling narrative presenting a revolutionary idea and the obstinate man who brought it to fruition.
Kirkus Reviews - Book Review MagazineRecommendations
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