Firearms: The Life Story of a Technology

Guns have existed in various forms for hundreds of years, and few objects have had such an immense impact on world history. Firearms traces their evolution―from the hand-held weapons of ancient humans to the medieval guns of China to modern assault rifles and hunting tools. This rich and surprising story uncovers centuries of trial and error and shows how the gun changed as new technological innovation focused on accuracy, power, speed, and ease of use. With graphic prints, photographs, a timeline, and a glossary, this engaging and insightful technography sheds light on one of the most important inventions in the history of the human race.