This book records the growth of telegraphy over two centuries, depicting the discoveries and ingenuity of the experimenters and engineers involved, the equipment they designed and built, and the organisation, applications and effects on society.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

pt. 1. Terrestrial telegraphy: Things mechanical ; Early electric ideas ; Commercial telegraphy ; Military operations ; Submarine cables -- pt. 2. Aerial telegraphy: Marconia and the experimenters ; Telegraphy for peace-- ; --and at war ; Military telegraphy at sea ; Military telegraphy in the air ; Epilogue.