American Iron, 1607-1900
American Iron, 1607-1900 by Robert B. Gordon, published by Johns Hopkins University Press on March 24, 2020, is a detailed examination of the evolution of iron technology in America from the colonial period through the early twentieth century. This edition, comprising 362 pages, utilizes recent archaeological findings and archival research to explore how early American ironmakers leveraged their natural resources to establish a significant presence in global markets. The book discusses the advancements in ironmaking techniques and the pivotal role these innovations played in the development of American industry post-Revolution.
In this comprehensive survey, Gordon closely analyzes the methods of iron production, shedding light on the skills required for efficient furnace operation and the implications for labor and product quality. He also addresses the environmental impacts of the iron industry, providing new interpretations of its historical significance. Readers will find insights into the various forms of ironmaking, including founding, fining, puddling, and bloom smelting, illustrating how these processes allowed ironworkers to gain a measure of control over their lives that was uncommon in other trades. This work contributes to the understanding of industrial history in the United States, making it a valuable resource for those interested in the intersection of technology and history.
Official synopsis Publisher
Winner of the Professional and Scholarly Publishing Award for General Engineering from the Association of American Publishers
Originally published in 1996. By applying their abundant natural resources to ironmaking early in the eighteenth century, Americans soon made themselves felt in world markets. After the Revolution, ironmakers supplied the materials necessary to the building of American industry, pushing the fuel efficiency and productivity of their furnaces far ahead of their European rivals.
In American Iron, 1607-1900, Robert B. Gordon draws on recent archaeological findings as well as archival research to present an ambitious, comprehensive survey of iron technology in America from the colonial period to the industry’s demise at about the turn of the twentieth century. Closely examining the techniques—the “hows”—of ironmaking in its various forms, Gordon offers new interpretations of labor, innovation, and product quality in ironmaking, along with references to the industry’s environmental consequences. He establishes the high level of skills required to ensure efficient and safe operation of furnaces and to improve the quality of iron product. By mastering founding, fining, puddling, or bloom smelting, ironworkers gained a degree of control over their lives not easily attained by others.
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “American Iron, 1607-1900” about?
Who is the author of “American Iron, 1607-1900”?
When was “American Iron, 1607-1900” published?
What is the ISBN for “American Iron, 1607-1900”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
