The Nearly Men

Though most know the name of Isaac Newton, few would recognize that of Robert Hooke, a contemporary scientist who postulated the concept of planetary motion before Newton. Throughout the pages of scientific history, a long list of unsung heroes stand behind the famous names and the world’s top innovations. This eye-opening investigation looks at the most important names in science you’ve never heard of and uncovers their invaluable contributions. From Joseph Swan, who came up with the design of the light bulb only to have it snatched by Thomas Edison, to Nikola Tesla, who died almost penniless while Guglielmo Marconi used his theories to develop wireless radio, this is the story of the men and women who have thanklessly progressed science and technology.