The Great Bridge
By David McCullough
- Release Date: 2007-05-31
- Genre: U.S. History
Description
A monumental tale of American ambition, told by Pulitzer Prize–winning author and master historian David McCullough. This gripping saga of the creation of the Brooklyn Bridge, one of the country’s boldest engineering achievements, reveals not only the politics and personalities behind "America’s Eiffel Tower," but charts New York’s ascent as a thriving metropolis.
Around 1870, during the Age of Optimism—a time when Americans believed anything was possible—the ambitious idea of constructing an unprecedented bridge across the East River to connect Manhattan and Brooklyn took root. This monumental project demanded a vision and determination on par with the efforts that built the great cathedrals of history.
Spearheaded by the Roebling family, the project faced staggering odds throughout its fourteen years of construction. Bodies were crushed, lives were lost, political empires fell, and waves of public emotion constantly threatened its progress. The Roeblings, too, were not immune to personal tragedies. Yet, Emily Roebling rose above these challenges to become the pivotal force behind the bridge’s completion, shattering all societal expectations of her era. This is not just the story of an engineering miracle; it is a sweeping narrative of the social climate of the time and the heroes and rascals who either built or exploited this groundbreaking enterprise.
Reviews
Sentimental
5By Neezy79Though I currently live in VA, I was born and raised in NYC. This book was truly special to me. It thoroughly expanded my knowledge of such a masterful engineering feat and evoked so many warm memories of gazing upon The Great Bridge as a child.Fascinating though a long listen.
5By Globaby100Details of the design and engineering were interesting despite my lack of education on the subject. The information put forward on the politics added to the interest. My history education gave few details of Tweed and Tammany Hall, so i found that subject very interesting. There was much more to the Brooklyn Bridge than a paragraph in history! I cannot imagine the research that went into this book.Great
5By Romans5:8My favorite McCullough bookUtterly boring and unreadable
1By Anti-realnamelizationWriting style is not fluentGreat book
5By LaDavidCouldn't put it down- imagery is as if I was there in the 19th Century watching this 8th Wonder of the World be constructed before my very eyes.Great!
5By dawncvtFascinating and detailed book. A book I I couldn't easily put down!Awe-inspiring story
5By Marcia_SchroederExcellent writing and historical account of one of our greatest American symbols and engineering accomplishments. The genius of the Roeblings and dedication of the men who built the bridge is awesome and inspirational.The Great Bridge
5By WalkingonSandAn excellent work that gives insight into the building of the Brooklyn Bridge along with lots of information about the historic time period.A good read
5By LasuuuuuuuThe book is detailed and reminds one how current issues were ever present even during that age. Enjoyed the book and the journey of the bridge and the builders.Great book
5By DavclaReally enjoyed it. The stories within a story are fascinating. As good as The Path between the Seas.The Great Bridge - Totally Absorbing
5By FewheelerThis book reads like like a well written novel. I had a difficult time putting it down. The Engineering details, the character descriptions, the political and social interactions and the descriptions of life in Brooklyn and New York in the latter part of the 19th century are amazing. If you need a book on the disciplines and processes of Project Management, from writing a project charter to closing procurements, this is it. I felt like I was in a classroom with the best professor I ever had. A real stand out for me with this book were the detailed descriptions of the opening ceremonies. Mr. McCullough misses no detail and allows the reader to relive the excitement, pride and sense of accomplishment celebrated that day. If you want a book that is totally absorbing and inspiring, read The Great Bridge.Absorbing
5By exopscoWonderful feel for the political and social times of New York & Brooklyn coupled with the massive undertaking in engineering a bridge that still draws millions of visitors.The Great Bridge
5By Goats33Excellent !!!Excellent Book
5By davewilldRead it years ago. Free is a great price for this book. Wonderful story. Well told, as are all of his books. Can't wait to read his book about expatriates in Paris.Great Bridge
5By PdnesAt times to detailed, but a very interesting book! Excellent writing.
