riding the rails that created the modern world : from the Trans-Siberian to the Southwest Chief Zoellner, Tom. creator text bibliography nyu New York Penguing Books 2014 monographic eng

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xxiii, 352 p. ; 24 cm "A revelatory, entertaining account of the world's most indispensable mode of transportation Tom Zoellner loves trains with a ferocious passion. In his new book he chronicles the innovation and sociological impact of the railway technology that changed the world, and could very well change it again. From the frigid trans-Siberian railroad to the antiquated Indian Railways to the futuristic MagLev trains, Zoellner offers a stirring story of man's relationship with trains. Zoellner examines both the mechanics of the rails and their engines and how they helped societies evolve. Not only do trains transport people and goods in an efficient manner, but they also reduce pollution and dependency upon oil. Zoellner also considers America's culture of ambivalence to mass transit, using the perpetually stalled line between Los Angeles and San Francisco as a case study in bureaucracy and public indifference. Train presents both an entertaining history of railway travel around the world while offering a serious and impassioned case for the future of train travel"-- Beginnings -- The people, and all the people -- Bound for glory -- Blood on the tracks -- The roof of the world -- Over the mountain -- Faster. Tom Zoellner. Includes bibliographical reference and index. Includes bibliographical references (pages 315-330) and index. Railroads History Railroad travel History Ferrocarriles Historia HE 1021 Z85t 2014 385.09 9780143126348 (pbk.) 130913 20230410115540.0 122081