The Emergence of Bicycling and Automobility in Britain (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9781350054189)

In the late 19th century, bicyling and motoring offered new ways for a hardy minority to travel. Escaping from the 'tyranny' of the train timetables, these entrepreneurs were able to promote private mobility when the road, technology and infrastructure were unequal to the task. With a moribund network out of town, poor roadside accommodation and few services, how could road traction persist and ultimately thrive?

Drawing on a wealth of primary sources, including magazines, newspapers and advice books on stable management, this book explores the emergence and development of bicycling and automobility in Britain, with a focus on the racing driver-cum-entrepreneur SF Edge (1868-1940) and his network. Craig Horner considers the motivations, prejudices and cultures of those who promoted and consumed road traction, providing new insights into social class, leisure, sport and tourism in Britain. In addition, he places early British bicycling and automobility in an international context, providing fruitful comparisons with the movements in France, Germany and the United States.

The Emergence of Bicycling and Automobility in Britainis an excellent resource for scholars and students interested in mobility studies, social and cultural history, and the history of technology.

Author: Craig Horner
ISBN-10: 1350054186
ISBN-13: 9781350054189
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Language: English
Published: 02/25/2021
Pages: 224
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.08lbs
Size: 9.21h x 6.14w x 0.56d

Review Citation(s):
Choice 06/01/2022