Unlike some other reproductions of classic texts (1) We have not used OCR(Optical Character Recognition), as this leads to bad quality books with introduced typos. (2) In books where there are images such as portraits, maps, sketches etc We have endeavoured to keep the quality of these images, so they represent accurately the original artefact. Although occasionally there may be certain imperfections with these old texts, we feel they deserve to be made available for future generations to enjoy.

This book—the sixth volume in The Great Cultural Eras of the Western World series—provides information on more than 400 individuals who created and played a role in the era's intellectual and cultural activity. The book's focus is on cultural figures—those whose inventions and discoveries contributed to the scientific revolution, those whose line of reasoning contributed to secularism, groundbreaking artists like Rembrandt, lesser known painters, and contributors to art and music. As the momentum of the Renaissance peaked in 1600, the Western World was poised to move from the Early Modern to the Modern Era. The Thirty Years War ended in 1648 and religion was no longer a cause for military conflict. Europe grew more secularized. Organized scientific research led to groundbreaking discoveries, such as the earth's magnetic field, Kepler's first two laws of motion, and the slide rule. In the arts, Baroque painting, music, and literature evolved. A new Europe was emerging. This book is a useful basic reference for students and laymen, with entries specifically designed for ready reference.

Rule collectors rejoice! In A Source Book for Rule Collectors with Rule Concordance and Value Guide, Philip Stanley has crafted a masterfully comprehensive illustrated reference guide to the history, uses, and values of measuring instruments. ASource Book for Rule Collectors includes reprints of the best articles from the past 100 years dealing with rules and measurement; extensive coverage of the materials, construction, graduations and uses of rules; a detailed table of the European measures used before the metric system, for identifying rules by size and county of origin; a thorough cataloging of rule accessories; and a complete bibliography of reprints, articles, books, and publications dealing with measuring instruments. The included Rule Concordance and Value Guide gives complete information for identifying and comparing all rules by all major American makers; estimates for each rule’s value based on condition and maker; extensive information on rule value, including condition, selling environment, and charisma. This book is an essential reference. Rule enthusiasts will find the combination a pleasure to read. Mr. Stanley’s breadth of knowledge and his regard for the rules he discusses are apparent throughout. For the antique tool dealer, rule collector, and student of the history of technology, this book is essential.