History of Chemistry, Volume II from 1850-1910 is a comprehensive look at the developments and advancements in the field of chemistry during this time period. Sir Thomas Edward Thorpe does an excellent job of detailing the key players, discoveries, and debates that shaped the discipline during these years.

The book provides a clear and concise overview of the major milestones in chemistry, from the rise of organic chemistry to the development of new analytical techniques. Thorpe's writing is engaging and accessible, making complex scientific concepts easy to understand for readers of all backgrounds.

One of the highlights of the book is its focus on the personalities behind the breakthroughs. Thorpe brings to life the stories of the chemists who pushed the boundaries of the field, often at great personal and professional risk. These human stories add depth and richness to the historical narrative, making the book a compelling read.

Overall, History of Chemistry, Volume II from 1850-1910 is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of science. Thorpe's meticulous research and engaging writing style make this book a must-read for students, scholars, and enthusiasts alike.

Book Description:
A history of the advances in chemistry, in the fields of inorganic, organic and physical chemistry from the mid-nineteenth century through the early 1900s. Included are brief biographical sketches of some early pioneers in the field such as Mendeleev, Liebeg, Williamson, Dewar and others. Chapters covering the discovery of new elements, the developing understanding of structure, properties and reactivity, the beginnings of practical organic synthesis and the early work on stereoisomerism show how the way was paved for the discoveries that followed in the 20th century. Thorpe's observation in Chapter 10 that “Organic chemistry has been largely developed by the discovery from time to time of special reagents and special types of reactions which have shown themselves to be capable of extensive application” continues to be true to this day.