Subject
Glacial epoch Books
Best books
Alfred Russel Wallace
Island Life; Or, The Phenomena and Causes of Insular Faunas and Floras
"Island Life; Or, The Phenomena and Causes of Insular Faunas and Floras" by Alfred Russel Wallace is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. This work explores the intricate relationship between islands and their unique ecosystems, delving into the phenomena that govern the distribution and development of plant and animal life in insular environments. Wallace aims to understand the contrasts in fauna and flora across different islands, providing insights into ecological and evolutionary principles. The opening of the book introduces readers to the striking contrasts in animal distribution between various geographical regions, using specific examples like the similarities between British and Japanese wildlife compared to the differences between Australia and New Zealand. Wallace emphasizes that proximity does not dictate similarity in species, as evidenced by closely located islands in the Malay Archipelago having vastly different faunas. He sets the stage for discussing the complexity surrounding the biological distribution of organisms, outlining the scope of the work, which will include studies on the evolutionary past, geological changes, climate impacts, and species dispersal methods.
Charles Lyell
The Antiquity of Man
"The Antiquity of Man" by Sir Charles Lyell is a book published in 1863. This groundbreaking work tackled three controversial scientific issues: the age of the human race, the existence of ice ages, and Darwin's theory of evolution. Lyell used the book to reverse his own long-held positions on all three topics. Despite facing criticism from colleagues who accused him of inadequately crediting their work, the book sold well and helped establish prehistoric archaeology as a legitimate science in Britain.
G. Frederick (George Frederick) Wright
Man and the Glacial Period
"Man and the Glacial Period" by G. Frederick Wright is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. The book explores the extensive relationship between human existence and the Glacial period, encompassing the evidence of glaciers' expansion during this epoch and its impact on human development in both Europe and America. It is designed to present a concise overview of accumulating facts regarding glacial phenomena and their historical context, accompanied by detailed illustrations. At the start of the work, Wright introduces the topic by detailing the current existence of glaciers around the world and inferring that they once covered much larger areas during a significant geological epoch. He outlines the characteristics of glaciers, including their formation, motion, and the geological effects they have on landscapes. This introduction sets the stage for a broader examination of how glacial activity was intimately linked to human history and development, positioning his analysis as both a geological and anthropological inquiry.
James Geikie
Fragments of Earth Lore: Sketches & Addresses Geological and Geographical
"Fragments of Earth Lore: Sketches & Addresses Geological and Geographical" by James Geikie is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. This work is a collection of essays and addresses that primarily explore geological and geographical themes, specifically focusing on the history of glacial periods and the characteristics of the Earth’s surface features. With detailed discussions on topics such as the physical features of Scotland, the origins of mountains, and the interrelationship between geography and geology, the book serves as an illuminating resource for those interested in understanding the planet's physical history. The opening of the work begins with a preface where Geikie sets the context for the essays, stating that they are compiled pieces originally prepared for different purposes, hence containing some repetition. He expresses a desire to convey the integration of geological knowledge with geographical understanding, emphasizing that true comprehension of surface features requires familiarity with geological principles. Furthermore, he introduces the initial chapter, which underscores the importance of geography in education and outlines the scope of the subsequent essays. Geikie critiques past educational methods while advocating for a more engaging approach that intertwines geography, history, and natural sciences to foster a better understanding of the physical world.
James Croll
Climate and Time in Their Geological Relations A Theory of Secular Changes of the Earth's Climate
"Climate and Time in Their Geological Relations" by James Croll is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. The work explores the concept of secular changes in the Earth's climate, particularly as they relate to geological phenomena such as the glacial epochs and the distribution of flora and fauna across different climatic zones. Croll aims to substantiate his theories with a rigorous presentation of facts and established physical principles, sidestepping hypothetical scenarios. The opening of the volume presents a preface in which Croll outlines his aims and the foundation of his subsequent arguments. He stresses the significance of understanding the climate as a dynamic agency influencing geological formations rather than attributing changes solely to violent geological events. Croll argues that the changes in Earth's climate are primarily governed by astronomical causes and emphasizes the importance of ocean currents and their role in distributing heat across the globe. He indicates that the investigation into how these climatic agents, which have consistently influenced geological history, forms the basis of the work, setting the stage for an in-depth analysis of the interplay between climate and geological change throughout different epochs.
Wilhelm Bölsche
Eiszeit und Klimawechsel
"Eiszeit und Klimawechsel" by Wilhelm Bölsche is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. The work explores the intricate interplay between ice ages and climate change, delving into the natural sciences and emphasizing the significant geologic and botanical impacts these phenomena have had on Earth's landscape and life forms. The opening of the text presents a vivid description of a mountainous landscape, inviting the reader to contemplate historical geological features shaped by ancient glaciers. Bölsche references classic literary figures such as Goethe, who speculated about past ice ages, and discusses scientific findings that have helped clarify the temporal and spatial extent of glaciation. The narrative weaves together observations of contemporary vegetation with evidence of glacial history, setting the stage for a deeper discussion about geological processes, climate variability, and their implications for our understanding of Earth's natural history.
C. A. M. (Charles Austin Mendell) Taber
The Coming Ice Age
"The Coming Ice Age" by C. A. M. Taber is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. The book explores the phenomenon of climate change, specifically focusing on the mechanisms behind ice ages and the transitions between warm and frigid periods. Taber aims to provide an understanding of past climatic shifts and their potential implications for the future through a detailed examination of geological evidence and oceanic patterns. The opening of the work sets the stage for Taber's exploration by discussing his motivations and methods for studying climatic changes, stemming from both personal observations made during his extensive whaling career and scientific literature he has engaged with. He provides an overview of the evidence for ancient glaciers in various parts of the world and highlights the importance of prevailing winds and ocean currents in influencing climate. This section serves as a prelude to the detailed discussions of the causes and effects of cold and mild periods that will follow, indicating that the book is both analytical and exploratory in its approach to understanding climate systems.
Ruth Sawyer Harvey
Drainage Modifications and Glaciation in the Danbury Region Connecticut State of Connecticut State Geological and Natural History Survey Bulletin No. 30
"Drainage Modifications and Glaciation in the Danbury Region Connecticut" by Ruth Sawyer Harvey, Ph.D., is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The work focuses on the geological and geomorphological characteristics of the Danbury region, particularly examining the effects of glaciation on drainage systems in the area. Using extensive fieldwork and data collection, Harvey analyzes the interactions between the landscape, glacial activity, and the evolution of the river systems in western Connecticut. At the start of this bulletin, the author introduces the geographical and geological backdrop of the Danbury region, discussing its significance as a representative area for understanding similar processes across Connecticut. Harvey presents a detailed overview of field research undertaken from 1907 to 1908, including a traverse of stream valleys and an examination of various drainage modifications caused by glaciation. Fundamental topics covered in the opening section include the description of Rocky River, the regional geological structures, and the implications of glacial deposits on the evolving landscape and drainage patterns of the region.
Marsden Manson
Geological and solar climates : $b Their causes and variations
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