Synopsis
The History of Bridges DVD covers the evolution of bridges, the various uses of bridges, and the four basic bridge designs -- beam, arch, suspension, and pontoon. This fascinating production also includes spectacular photography and stories of famous bridges from all over the world. Highlighting the production is actual archival footage of Galloping Gertie, the famous Tacoma Narrows suspension bridge in Washington state that collapsed in 1940, just four months after it opened! Hundreds of thousands of years ago, nature provided the world with its first bridges in the form of fallen logs, rocks, and hanging vines. Since then, bridges have gotten people and a multitude of material items from one side to the other all over the world. As the ingenuity of man has evolved over the years so have the bridges that he has created to include crossings made from wood and iron to steel and concrete. A must watch for history and science buffs, students, teachers, and engineers. Reviews include - A brief history, from the still used bridges constructed by the Romans, the covered wooden bridges of early Americana and the development of better materials, is illustrated with scenes of many types of bridges and their purposes. Beautiful photography, lucidly written. Highly recommended! --Landers Film Review. The history, function, and design of bridges are introduced in this entertaining and informative production. Fostering both awareness of and appreciation for the ubiquitous bridge, this smoothly edited, captivating program is especially suitable for classroom viewing. --Booklist. Length approximately 25 minutes.