The heritage of telegraphy

The history of telegraphy is presented. Optical telegraphy and other precursors to Samuel Morse's invention are described. Morse's concept and the first experimental line are discussed. The building of the international network is examined, covering capital, the design and installation of outside plant, business competition and technical rivalries, relationships with the railroads and the press, the effects on the industry of the US Civil War, telegraph technology and services, and the problems encountered in crossing water.<
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