Author Jenny MacKay takes readers on a wild ride through the history, design fundamentals, and scientific principles behind roller coasters. Readers will learn how gravity and physical forces create the fastest amusement park attractions and how steel and wooden roller coasters are designed and constructed. The final chapter, focused on the roller coasters of the future, describes the recent use of electromagnets and CAD technology.

Includes articles on international business opportunities.

From the wildest white-knuckle thriller to the tamest kiddie ride, roller coasters continue to enthrall amusement-seekers of all ages. This second edition of the authoritative guide to America and Canada's coasters includes twice as many roller coasters as the first edition in over 100 parks. The state-by-state listing of amusement and theme parks includes phone numbers and addresses, as well as numerous photographs of the rides that make children laugh and grown men cry. Also included is the often surprising history of these remarkable rides, along with information on the great coaster designers who bring these monsters to life. A chronology of wooden coasters still in operation ranges from the historic attractions built at the turn of the century to the high-tech rides set to open in 2000. There is also statistical information on the longest coasters, the numbers of steel and wooden coasters in each state, and other fun facts to delight any thrill seeker with a need for speed.

From the invention of eyeglasses to the Internet, this three-volume set examines the pivotal effects of inventions on society, providing a fascinating history of technology and innovations in the United States from the earliest European colonization to the present. Technical Innovation in American History surveys the history of technology, documenting the chronological and thematic connections between specific inventions, technological systems, individuals, and events that have contributed to the history of science and technology in the United States. Covering eras from colonial times to the present day in three chronological volumes, the entries include innovations in fields such as architecture, civil engineering, transportation, energy, mining and oil industries, chemical industries, electronics, computer and information technology, communications (television, radio, and print), agriculture and food technology, and military technology. The A–Z entries address key individuals, events, organizations, and legislation related to themes such as industry, consumer and medical technology, military technology, computer technology, and space science, among others, enabling readers to understand how specific inventions, technological systems, individuals, and events influenced the history, cultural development, and even self-identity of the United States and its people. The information also spotlights how American culture, the U.S. government, and American society have specifically influenced technological development.

Facets of the Fifties. A reference guide to an iconic Decade of Movie Palaces, Television, Classic Cars, Sports, Department Stores, Trains, Music, Food, Fashion and more

A photographic retrospective covers more than 100 years of images from the history of the American amusement park.