The Early History of Data Networks
Perspectives
1. Edition November 1994
304 Pages, Softcover
Wiley & Sons Ltd
Most of us would consider the emergence of large-scale
communication networks to be a 20th century phenomenon. Yet, the
first nationwide data networks were built not in this century but
almost 200 years ago. Well before the electromagnetic telegraph was
invented, many countries in Europe had fully operational data
communications systems, with altogether close to 1,000 network
stations.
This book gives a fascinating glimpse of the many documented
attempts throughout history to develop effective means for
long-distance communications. The oldest attempts date back to
millennia before Christ, and include ingenious uses of homing
pigeons, mirrors, flags, torches, and beacons.
The book then shows how Claude Chappe, a French clergyman, started
the information revolution in 1794 with the design and construction
of the first true telegraph network in France. Another chapter
contains the first complete English translation of a remarkable
document on the design of optical telegraphs networks, originally
written in 1796 by the Swedish nobleman Abraham Niclas Edelcrantz.
Chapter One. Torches and Beacons.
Chapter Two. Claude Chappe.
Chapter Three. Abraham N. Edelcrantz.
Chapter Four. A Treatise on Telegraphs (from 1796).
Chapter Five. Other Countries.
Chapter Six. About Inventions.
Appendix A. Letters to Gentleman's Magazine.
Appendix B. Chappe's Design.
Appendix C. Edelcrantz's Design.
Illustrations.
Notes.
Bibliography.
Index.
Colophon.
