Gadgets and Necessities: An Encyclopedia of Household Innovations

(Hardback)

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Description

This A-to-Z encyclopedia examines domestic technology and innovations during the 20th century, exploring the social and cultural conditions which produced such products as the electric iron and the vacuum cleaner. It covers innovations and objects, people, organizations, institutions, manufacturers and themes. It describes and explains the innovations which have had a demonstrable impact on the household and domestic life in Europe, principally the UK, and in the USA during the 20th century. Entries include: Aga cooker, barbecue, calculators, jacuzzis, shaver, mobile phone and sliced bread.

Reviews

"There is much here to be learned. This book is appropriate for public and academic libraries." - American Reference Books Annual "Easily understood by general readers, this work is appropriate for all libraries." - Choice "This handy tool will be greatly appreciated in American school, college, and public libraries." - Lawrence Looks at Books "This compilation of appliances and their underlying principles is a valuable examination of twentieth-century technology and the relief of home drudgery ... The writing is straightforward and factual and unencumbered with jargon ... Overall, the book is a worthy addition to the school and public library shelf." - Booklist

Author Bio

Pauline Webb is senior curator at the Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester, England. Mark Suggitt is museums director at St. Albans Museums, Hertfordshire, England.