From the early steam trains to the high-speed bullet trains of today, 'The Iron Road' tells the hidden stories of railway history - the inspired engineering, blood, sweat and tears that went into the construction of the railways. Uncover the compelling tales of bold vision, invention and error, and social change behind the history of trains and railways, with famous railways such as the Transsiberian fully explored.

A picture-packed guide to the fascinating story of trains and how they have transformed our world. Discover how the vision of George Stephenson, the "father of the railroad," materialized into an age of steam around the world. Study the cut-out of a locomotive to understand how the movement of the piston turns the wheels. Learn how the American railroad contributed to the development and progress in the US and facilitated the spread of population...

"Filled with unusual and unexpected stories and facts, this illustrated survey of the most important historical and contemporary railway lines around the world will captivate a wide audience, from the curious browser to researching students. The book organizes the railroads chronologically, considering each according to its greatest impact on social, commercial, political, engineering, and military history. Maps plus more than 200 elegant drawings,...