Subject
Fulton, Robert, 1765-1815 Books
Best books
Alice Crary Sutcliffe
Robert Fulton
"Robert Fulton" by Alice Crary Sutcliffe is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The narrative explores the life and contributions of Robert Fulton, the renowned inventor of the steamboat, detailing his humble beginnings and rise to fame as an innovator, highlighting his persistence and dedication. Sutcliffe aims to inspire young readers by presenting Fulton’s achievements as a reflection of hard work and determination. At the start of the book, Sutcliffe introduces the setting of an old Fourth of July celebration in 1778 Pennsylvania, where a thirteen-year-old Robert Fulton devises a creative method to celebrate when town officials forbid traditional candle illuminations. This incident reveals his inventive nature early on, setting the stage for his future as a great inventor. The narrative then provides insights into Fulton’s childhood, education, and family background, explaining how these influences shaped his character and aspirations. His early experiments with drawings and machines show a growing interest in the mechanics of navigation, foreshadowing his later innovations in steam navigation and submarine design.
William Barclay Parsons
Robert Fulton and the Submarine
"Robert Fulton and the Submarine" by William Barclay Parsons is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the life of Robert Fulton, an American engineer, inventor, and artist renowned for designing the first practical submarine, the Nautilus. It delves into his early years, influences, and the political and technical challenges he encountered in bringing his innovative ideas to fruition. The opening of the text introduces the reader to Robert Fulton’s journey from art to engineering, highlighting his interactions with influential figures like Joel Barlow and Gaspard Monge. It describes Fulton’s initial forays into submarine design during his time in France, including his attempts to persuade the French government of the submarine's strategic importance. As the narrative unfolds, we learn about Fulton's designs and the secrecy surrounding them, setting the stage for his experiments with underwater navigation and linking them to broader political ambitions during his era. The text serves as a prelude to a detailed exploration of Fulton's innovations and their implications for maritime warfare.
Howard Irving Chapelle
Fulton's "Steam Battery": Blockship and Catamaran
"Fulton's "Steam Battery": Blockship and Catamaran" by Howard Irving Chapelle is a historical account written in the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1960s. The book delves into Robert Fulton's innovative design for a steam-powered warship, the first of its kind, constructed during the War of 1812. It provides a detailed examination of the ship's development, construction, and historical significance, focusing on the dual-hull design that characterizes this unique vessel. The book narrates the journey of Fulton's "Steam Battery", highlighting the collaborative efforts of various individuals and organizations involved in its creation. Chapelle meticulously outlines the challenges faced, from funding issues and material shortages due to wartime blockades to technical modifications needed for the machinery and design. The narrative captures the anticipation surrounding the ship's launch, trials, and eventual operational shortcomings, as well as the broader implications of such innovations in naval warfare. Ultimately, the author underscores the impact of Fulton’s work on future naval engineering and the evolution of combat vessels, even as the steam battery itself did not fulfill its intended role during the war.
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