On Paper: The Everything of Its Two-Thousand-Year History

ISBN: 0307279642

Author: Basbanes, Nicholas A.

Condition: New

A Best Book of the Year:Mother Jones Bloomberg News National Post KirkusIn these pages, Nicholas Basbanes-the consummate bibliophiles bibliophile-shows how paper has been civilizations constant companion. It preserves our history and gives record to our very finest literary, cultural, and scientific accomplishments. Since its invention in China nearly two millennia ago, the technology of paper has spread throughout the inhabited world.With deep knowledge and care, Basbanes traces papers trail from the earliest handmade sheets to the modern-day mills. Paper, yoked to politics, has played a crucial role in the unfolding of landmark events, from the American Revolution to Daniel Ellsbergs Pentagon Papers to the aftermath of 9/11. Without paper, modern hygienic practice would be unimaginable; as currency, people will do almost anything to possess it; and, as a tool of expression, it is inextricable from human culture. Lavishly researched, compellingly written, this masterful guide illuminates papers endless possibilities.