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The Victorian Internet
256 pages, 2014
In the mid-19th century, the telegraph shrunk the globe more quickly than ever before. For centuries, people communicated only as quickly as the fastest ship or horse could travel. Generations of innovators tried and failed to develop speedier messaging devices.
But in the mid-1800s, a few extraordinary pioneers at last succeeded. Their invention--the electric telegraph--shrank the world more quickly than ever before. A colorful tale of scientific discovery and technological cunning, The Victorian Internet tells the story of the telegraph's creation and remarkable impact, and of the visionaries, oddballs, and eccentrics who pioneered it. By 1865 telegraph cables spanned continents and oceans, revolutionizing the ways countries dealt with one another.
The Victorian Internet explores the profound impact the telegraph had on the world. It was the first technology that allowed instant communication over long distances, changing the way people lived and worked.
Tom Standage draws a fascinating parallel between the telegraph and the internet. He shows how both technologies revolutionized communication, brought people closer together, and sparked similar debates about privacy and security.
The book takes a deep look into how the telegraph, much like the internet, had a significant social impact. It changed the way people interacted, conducted business, and even fell in love. It's a reminder of how technology can reshape society.
Standage digs into the forgotten history of the telegraph. He reveals how it was once hailed as a groundbreaking invention, only to be overshadowed by newer technologies. It's a reminder of how quickly technology can evolve and be forgotten.
The Victorian Internet encourages us to learn from the past. By looking at the telegraph's history, we can better understand the challenges and opportunities that come with new technologies. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and society.
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The Victorian Internet is a fascinating journey through the early days of communication. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the history of technology.