W.E. Knowles Middleton, continuing his series of books on the history of the National Research Council of Canada, here presents a history of the challenges, defeats and triumphs of mechanical engineering at the Council. Throughout much of the history of the National Research Council, the Division of Mechanical Engineering has been mostly preoccupied with problems of aeronautics. During World War II the Division constituted an aeronautical laboratory. The influence of individuals, government departments, and individuals, all involved in supporting and demanding research into problems of mechanical engineering in Canada makes intriguing reading.
The volume will be of interest to those investigating the history of science and technology in Canada. It will also be crucial to those interested in Canada's contribution to World War II on the fronts of technology and aeronautics.

W.E. Knowles Middleton was associated with the National Research Council from 1946 until 1963. He is the author of The History of the Barometer, The Experimenters: A Study of the Accademia del Cimento, Physics at the National Research Council of Canada, 1929-1952 (WLU Press, 1979), Lorenzo Magalotti at the Court of Charles II (WLU Press, 1980), and Radar Development in Canada: The Radio Branch of the National Research Council 1939-1946 (WLU Press, 1981). He has received honorary degrees from Boston University and McGill University.

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