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Napoleon's Buttons

Penny Le Couteur, Jay Burreson

392 Pages
2003

Napoleon's Buttons

How 17 Molecules Changed History

Tarcher

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Napoleon's Buttons - Summary

This fascinating exploration of chemistry's role in shaping human history revolves around seventeen pivotal molecules that dramatically influenced the course of civilization. Beginning with the intriguing tale of Napoleon's army being potentially undermined by the chemical properties of tin buttons in cold weather, the book weaves together scientific understanding with historical events, demonstrating how molecular structures have profoundly impacted everything from exploration and warfare to fashion and social change.

Key Themes

1

The Butterfly Effect of Chemical Properties

The book illustrates how minor molecular differences can have enormous historical consequences, as demonstrated by the tin buttons' deterioration that may have contributed to Napoleon's failed Russian campaign.

2

Molecular Foundations of Modern Society

From the spice trade to modern medicine, the authors reveal how specific molecules have shaped human civilization by influencing commerce, technology, and social structures throughout history.

3

Chemistry as a Historical Force

The narrative demonstrates how understanding molecular structures provides a unique lens for interpreting historical events, connecting scientific principles to major turning points in human civilization.

FAQ's

These particular molecules represent pivotal points in human history where chemical properties directly influenced significant historical events, providing a comprehensive overview of chemistry's impact on civilization.

The authors use storytelling and historical narratives to explain complex chemical concepts, connecting molecular structures to familiar historical events and everyday phenomena that readers can easily relate to.

The buttons serve as a powerful metaphor for how seemingly minor chemical properties can have far-reaching historical consequences, setting the stage for exploring other molecules that have shaped human history in unexpected ways.

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