A General Plan for a Mail Communication by Steam, Between Great Britain and the Eastern and Western Parts of the World   By: James MacQueen (1778-1870)

In "A General Plan for a Mail Communication by Steam, Between Great Britain and the Eastern and Western Parts of the World," James MacQueen presents a visionary approach to revolutionizing worldwide mail communication. Published over a century ago, MacQueen's ideas continue to captivate readers with their foresight and ambition.

MacQueen's work is not simply a theoretical exploration, but a detailed proposal for a comprehensive mail system. He methodically lays out his plan, emphasizing the advantages it would bring to trade, commerce, and global relations. By highlighting the benefits, MacQueen manages to instill a sense of urgency and possibility in his readers.

One impressive aspect of MacQueen's writing is his deep understanding of logistical challenges associated with such an ambitious project. He addresses potential obstacles head-on, providing practical solutions for each one. His meticulous attention to detail showcases his knowledge and expertise in the subject matter.

Furthermore, MacQueen's ability to convey complex ideas in a clear and accessible manner is commendable. Despite the technical nature of the topic, he avoids excessive jargon and makes the content understandable for a wider audience. This makes the book engaging and enjoyable for readers with varying levels of familiarity with the subject.

While MacQueen's book primarily focuses on the communication benefits of a steam-based mail system, it also reveals his broader understanding of the socio-political implications. He envisions the potential for fostering diplomatic ties and facilitating cultural exchange, thereby fostering global harmony through improved communication.

Nevertheless, it must be acknowledged that this work was written more than a hundred years ago and some aspects may be outdated or impractical by today's standards. However, it remains an invaluable piece of historical literature that sheds light on the prevailing technological ambitions of its time.

In conclusion, "A General Plan for a Mail Communication by Steam, Between Great Britain and the Eastern and Western Parts of the World" by James MacQueen is a visionary work ahead of its time. MacQueen's detailed proposal, expert knowledge, and accessible writing style make this book a fascinating read for anyone interested in the history of communication and early technological aspirations.

First Page:

Startling as the subject of connecting China and New South Wales (p. vi) with Great Britain, through the West Indies, may at first sight appear, both as regards time and expense, still few things are more practicable. The labour and expense of crossing the Isthmus of America, either by Panama or by Lake Nicaragua, by a land conveyance, is trifling. With eight steam boats, ONLY FOUR ADDITIONAL to the number already in the West Indies, added to the present sailing packet establishment, the whole Plan for the Western World, extending it westward to China and New South Wales, can, in the mean time, as the following pages will show you, be put into execution to the fullest extent, with a very great saving in time, and with very great regularity... Continue reading book >>