Inventions That Shaped the World introduces young readers to revolutionary inventions, and emphasizes the impact the inventions had upon life at the time of their creation and beyond. Also explored is the featured invention's cultural significance, as well as the patterns of change that resulted from its origination. Chapters cover topics such as life before the invention, the need for the invention, its development, its influence upon culture, its evolution, and a biography on the inventor. Four-color photos, sidebars, a glossary, a timeline, an index, and a To Find Out More section complement the text. Whether taking a Sunday drive or 18-wheeling across the country, transportation is a vital element in today's world. In an easy-to-read style, the author explores this topic from early transportation methods to today's electric cars. Auto developers, auto technology, and the influence of this technology on culture are discussed.