The Tools of Empire: Technology and European Imperialism in the Nineteenth Century

This book really opened my eyes to the how and why of European world conquest. "Oh they had guns" doesn't begin to cover it. Excellent read, and easy to follow even as an amateur.

Headrick has written an excellent book on how technology allowed and enabled colonial expansion in the 19th century. Although the focus of the book could lead to an interpretation of technological determinism, he does acknowledge that other, related factors had to exist. In fact, the introduction discusses the twin issues of motive and means, recognizing that both need to exist, the relationship is fluid, and that they are interrelated. However, and keeping in mind the book was written in 1981, the author feels the technological factor has been overlooked or downplayed.The book's thesis is that European powers were able to expand rapidly in the 19th century because technology reduced the cost, in both monetary and human terms, and because it gave them the means to exploit areas of the globe that had been out of reach of coastlines. Headrick argues that the development of steamboats, railroads, weapons, communications, and quinine allowed the penetration of Africa, India, and China which in turn drove down costs, opened up new markets, and provided access to raw materials.The book is an easy and interesting read, and Headrick does make a good argument for the technological factor being a key enabler to colonial expansion.

Very interesting book presenting logical theories. Each chapter sort of self contained and helped the book to move along nicely.

Headrick does a nice job with this book. Certainly the importance of technology in 19th Century imperialism is a specific topic, and the only people likely to read the book are students and professors. But if you're a student assigned this book, you'll find it informative and easy to read.Headrick attempts to illustrate the significant role that technological advances played in European imperialism during this period. He points to steam boats, improved weaponry and malaria vaccination as the three developments that most facilitated imperialism, and his research is sound. He also explains other breakthroughs that allowed European nations -- Britain in particular -- to get more use out of these colonies. These includes railroads in India and the Suez Canal.The book is not long and it's a pretty smooth read, which is notable considering the topic. I wish there had been some more details about specific conquests and colonies, or even a timeline to help pull it all together. Also, Part 3 is not as cohesive as the first two. But it was worth reading for sure.

it was a wonderful copy, it was practically brand new which is always great. it has very little underlining and high lighting towards the end but its no biggie because the stuff they highlighted is helpful for me as well.

the author of this book is one of the most important research in history of technology in the world. This book is a great contribution to understand the relationship between science and politics.

I read this book for a class years ago and still use the information in my classroom. Excellent book!

I loved this book. I thought it had a very compelling argument for how technology influenced the construction of empires.

I loved this book. I thought it had a very compelling argument for how technology influenced the construction of empires.