The Story of Great Inventions

by Elmer Ellsworth Burns

"The Story of Great Inventions" by Elmer Ellsworth Burns is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the fascinating history and development of significant technological advancements and inventions, focusing on influential figures in science and engineering. It emphasizes the connection between scientific discoveries and the inventions that arose from them, illustrating how these breakthroughs shaped modern civilization. The opening of this work introduces Archimedes, detailing his life in ancient Syracuse, where he is portrayed as the first great inventor. The narrative describes his remarkable feats, such as moving heavy objects using simple machines, and highlights his ingenuity during the Roman siege of Syracuse, where his inventions successfully defended the city. Additionally, it covers Archimedes' principle on buoyancy, revealing how his discoveries catalyzed subsequent advancements in science and engineering. This sets the stage for a broader exploration of inventions through history, leading to the eventual chapters that will delve into the contributions of later figures like Galileo and Newton.