The Map That Changed the World
William Smith and the Birth of Modern Geology
By Simon Winchester
(Harper Perennial, Paperback, 9780060931803, 352pp.)
Publication Date: August 2002
Other Editions of This Title: Google eBook, Hardcover, Paperback
Categories: Earth Sciences - Geology, Europe - Great Britain - General, History
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In 1793, a canal digger named William Smith made a startling discovery. He found that by tracing the placement of fossils, which he uncovered in his excavations, one could follow layers of rocks as they dipped and rose and fell -- clear across England and, indeed, clear across the world -- making it possible, for the first time ever, to draw a chart of the hidden underside of the earth. Determined to expose what he realized was the landscape's secret fourth dimension, Smith spent twenty-two years piecing together the fragments of this unseen universe to create an epochal and remarkably beautiful hand-painted map. But instead of receiving accolades and honors, he ended up in debtors' prison, the victim of plagiarism, and virtually homeless for ten years more. Finally, in 1831, this quiet genius -- now known as the father of modern geology -- received the Geological Society of London's highest award and King William IV offered him a lifetime pension.
The Map That Changed the World is a very human tale of endurance and achievement, of one man's dedication in the face of ruin. With a keen eye and thoughtful detail, Simon Winchester unfolds the poignant sacrifice behind this world-changing discovery.
Simon Winchester's many books include The Professor and the Madman, The Map That Changed the World, Krakatoa, and A Crack in the Edge of the World. Each of these has been a New York Times bestseller and has appeared on numerous best and notable lists. Mr. Winchester was made Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by HM The Queen in 2006. He lives in western Massachusetts.
"Winchester masterfully weaves a compelling history."
-Newsday
"Well-researched narrative"
-BusinessWeek
"A compelling human story"
-Boston Sunday Herald
"Winchester brings Smith's struggle to life in clear and beautiful language."
-New York Times Book Review
"Smith's unsung life provides the perfect backdrop for yet another entertaining intellectual history."
-Denver Post
"Winchester has once again captured the essence of persistence against odds resulting in achievement."
-Library Journal (starred review)
"Smith's life provides a terrific plot to frame his contribution to science. Winchester's wonderful account does credit to it."
-Publishers Weekly (*Starred Review*)
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