The first global history of the epic early days of iron railways. Railways, in simple wooden or stone form, have existed since prehistoric times. But from the 1750s, the introduction of iron rails led to dramatic technological development—one that would truly change the world.

In this new rich history, David Gwyn narrates the neglected story of the early railway network from a global perspective. Starting with a combination of relentless entrepreneurship, brilliant experimenters, and international cooperation, railway construction began to expand worldwide at an astounding pace. From Britain to Australia, from Russia to America, railways would connect cities, nations, and entire continents. Iron was a tool of industry and empire, as well as, ultimately, of passenger transport, and developments in technology happened at a shocking speed—even if the first steam locomotive in America could only reach a speed of 6 miles per hour.

"Coming of the Railway" explores these fascinating developments, documenting the vast social, political, and economic impact of the early railway—shaping the form of the global economy as we know it today.