Lives of Boulton and Watt. Principally from the Original Soho Mss

Samuel Smiles' book, 'Lives of Boulton and Watt. Principally from the Original Soho Mss' is a thorough examination of the lives and achievements of two prominent figures in the Industrial Revolution, Matthew Boulton and James Watt. Smiles meticulously portrays the revolutionary impact of their work in the field of engineering and industry, shedding light on their innovative contributions to steam power and machinery. The book is written in a detailed and informative style, providing readers with a glimpse into the technological advancements that shaped the modern world. The historical context of the Industrial Revolution is vividly depicted, making this book an essential read for those interested in the history of technology and innovation. Samuel Smiles, a renowned Scottish author and reformer, was known for his works promoting self-help and industrial progress. His background in engineering and interest in the achievements of Boulton and Watt likely inspired him to delve into their lives and legacies. Smiles' passion for showcasing the transformative power of technology shines through in this meticulous biography. I highly recommend 'Lives of Boulton and Watt' to readers fascinated by the history of technological innovation and the Industrial Revolution. Samuel Smiles' insightful portrayal of Boulton and Watt's lives offers a captivating journey into the world-changing advancements of the 18th century.

Samuel Smiles (1812–1904) was a Scottish author and government reformer whose work in literature predominantly encompassed the Victorian era's ethos of self-help and individual responsibility. A prolific writer, Smiles is widely known for pioneering the genre of 'self-help' with his highly influential book 'Self-Help; with Illustrations of Character and Conduct' (1859). His writings have been characterized by a belief in the virtues of hard work, thrift, and fortitude, and they often underscored the lives of engineers, inventors, and entrepreneurs who personified these traits. An important entry in his bibliography is 'Lives of Boulton and Watt. Principally from the Original Soho Mss', wherein he forays into the biographies of the industrial revolutionaries Matthew Boulton and James Watt. Smiles's literary style is marked by a combination of moral didacticism and engaging storytelling, as he narrated the achievements of his subjects to inspire his readers to aspire toward self-improvement and industry. His work remains a testament to the cultural values of the 19th century and offers a window into the era's perspectives on progress and success. His influence is seen not only in literature but also in the encouragement of a culture of entrepreneurship and self-directed pursuit of personal achievements within the broader spectrum of societal advancement.