Aviation : An Historical Survey from Its Origins to the End of the Second World War

In this classic account, Gibbs-Smith traces the story of aviation from the invention of the kite in China through to the beginnings of the jet age. In particular, he gives an account of the experiments, disasters & successes in many countries which culminated in the achievement of a genuine flying machine by the Wright brothers in the U.S. A large part of the story also covers the early years of aviation before 1914. This period, rich in eccentric characters & extraordinary efforts, laid the foundation for future progress. The 2nd ed. of this authoritative text, out of print for many years, is here republished with a number of new illustrations. It will delight a new generation of aviation enthusiasts. Illustrations.Gibbs-Smith, Charles H. is the author of 'Aviation : An Historical Survey from Its Origins to the End of the Second World War', published 2007 under ISBN 9781422368251 and ISBN 1422368254.