Impossible Engineering by Chandra Mukerji

Technology and Territoriality on the Canal du Midi

This book delves into the intricate and ambitious construction of the Canal du Midi in 17th-century France, exploring how this monumental engineering feat was achieved despite the technological limitations of the time. It examines the interplay of social, political, and economic factors that enabled the canal's completion, highlighting the collaboration between engineers, laborers, and the state. The narrative provides a detailed account of the challenges faced and the innovative solutions devised, offering insights into the broader implications of engineering projects on society and the environment.

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