Drawingupon new research and scholarship; historian Paul Lockhart; author of thecritically acclaimed Revolutionary War biography The Drillmaster of ValleyForge; offers a penetrating reassessment of the first major engagement ofthe American Revolution. In the tradition of David McCullough’s 1776;Lockhart illuminates the Battle of Bunker Hill as a crucial event in thecreation of an American identity; dexterously interweaving the story of thispivotal pitched battle with two other momentous narratives: the creation ofAmerica’s first army; and the rise of the man who led it; George Washington.
#500920 in Books 2005-04-25 2005-04-25Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x 1.22 x 6.00l; 1.51 #File Name: 061834151X384 pages
Review
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Astrophysics without the equationsBy Alan Ross"Empire of the Stars" is a stellar depiction of astrophysics and the astrophysicists who make sense of it all. Miller focuses on the personalities and foibles of the men and women scientists who have contributed to our understanding of stars. The author presents their research through anecdotes and scientific discussions in the context of historical events. This gives added relevancy and significance to their work. In effect; Miller's formula for storytelling delivers new dimensions to astrophysics in "book-spacetime."The thrust of the book revolves around the scientific battle between Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar (Chandra) and Sir Arthur Eddington over star collapse. Although it becomes apparent that Chandra's brilliant insight is correct; it is Chandra who becomes disillusioned and professionally detoured by the controversy. Chandra seeks refuge at Chicago where he flourishes in his research endeavors and is recognized as world-renowned scientist.The book is a colorful exposition on the genesis of black-hole theory. Miller uses historical events and the scientists themselves to reveal the mysteries of the stars. This book is a supernova for those interested in a biography of Chandra and a history of astrophysics.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Ample; Clear; Informative; IntelligentBy GioIf you like books described by the title above; you'll enjoy Empire of the Stars. The core of the book is a straightforward biography of Chandrasekhar; but that story is well wrapped in a social history of the international scientific community of the 20th Century. Author Arthur Miller does not convince all readers of his bold thesis that the clash between Chandra and Eddington impeded scientific progress by decades; but the interest of the book does not hinge on that dramatic device.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Great workBy DaveDGApart from an excellent description of a scientific theory for the benefit of the informed layman; it is also a fascinating story of the trials and tribulations of a great mind and how personal ego and preconceived notions of his colleagues made them blind to his epoch-making discoveries.
