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This book explores the history of mechanical engineering since the Bronze Age. Focusing on machinery inventions and the development of mechanical technology, it also discusses the machinery industry and modern mechanical education. The evolution of machinery is divided into three stages: Ancient (before the European Renaissance), Modern (mainly including the two Industrial Revolutions) and Contemporary (since the Revolution in Physics, especially post Second World War). The book not only clarifies the development of mechanical engineering, but also reveals the driving forces behind it - e.g. the economy, national defense and human scientific research activities - to highlight the links between technology and society; mechanical engineering and the natural sciences; and mechanical engineering and related technological areas.

Though mainly intended as a textbook or supplemental reading for graduate students, the book also offers a unique resource for researchers and engineers in mechanical engineering who wish to broaden their horizons.

A History of Mechanical Engineering

Introduction.- Development of Ancient Machinery.- Social Development and Scientific Revolution in Europe from the Renaissance to the 1st Industrial Revolution.- The First Industrial Revolution.- The Second Industrial Revolution.- Development of Mathematics and Mechanics during the Industrial Revolutions.- Birth and Early Development of Discipline of Mechanical Engineering.- A Brief Introduction to the 3rd Technological Revolution.- Mechanical Engineering during the 3rd Technological Revolution.- Development of Machine Theories in New Period.- Development of Mechanical Design in New Period.- Development of Manufacturing Technology in New Period.- Developing History of Blank Production.- Modern Higher Education of Mechanical Engineering.