Les Merveilles de la Locomotion

by E. (Ernest) Deharme

"Les Merveilles de la Locomotion" by E. Deharme is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. The book explores the various means and methods by which humans achieve locomotion on land, in water, and in the air, aiming to highlight the remarkable advancements made in moving across different environments. It presents a comprehensive examination of natural movement alongside the technological innovations employed by humans to enhance their mobility. The opening of the book introduces the concept of universal movement, emphasizing that all things in nature are in constant motion. Deharme discusses the different types of movement seen in the mineral, plant, and animal kingdoms, illustrating how humans, endowed with intelligence, seek to dominate and utilize the forces of nature to facilitate their own movement. The narrative sets the stage for a detailed exploration of locomotion, discussing the evolution of vehicles such as sledges and carts and comparing human locomotion to that of animals, ultimately aiming to showcase the ingenuity and adaptability of humans in their quest for movement across various landscapes.