The Bicycle - Towards a Global History

by P. Smethurst

Overview

This is the first history of the bicycle to trace not only the technical background to its invention, but also to contrast its social and cultural impact in different parts of the world, and assess its future as a continuing global phenomenon.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781137499493
Publisher:	Palgrave Macmillan UK
Publication date:	05/22/2015
Edition description:	2015
Pages:	194
Product dimensions:	6.10(w) x 9.25(h) x (d)

About the Author

Paul Smethurst is Associate Professor in English at the University of Hong Kong, China, where he teaches courses in travel writing, literature and the environment, and fictions of globalisation. His books include Travel Writing and the Natural World (2013) and The Postmodern Chronotope (2000). After taking early retirement in 2015, he plans to continue writing from his home in Bali.

Table of Contents

Contents 1. Invention 2. Mobility 3. Crossings 4. Trends and Trajectories

Editorial Reviews

"Using four thematic chapters, this book is notable in providing an assessment of the history of the bicycle that is firmly lodged in sociology and cultural studies, representing the most current academic approaches to the subject. Its global outlook is particularly welcome. It is a valuable addition to the literature of cycling history and to transport studies more generally."

- Nicholas Oddy, Head of Design History and Context, Glasgow School of Art, UK

'Paul Smethurst has thoroughly digested his bicycle history and produced a deeply researched, original and perceptive cultural and social history of the bicycle. Among the many recently published new titles exploring this ever-fascinating subject, Paul's is particularly noteworthy for its broad explorations and international focus.' Dr Andrew Ritchie, bicycle historian and author of Major Taylor: The Fastest Bicycle Rider in the World

From the Publisher