A comprehensive account of how energy has shaped society throughout history, from pre-agricultural foraging societies through today’s fossil fuel–driven civilization.

“I wait for new Smil books the way some people wait for the next ‘Star Wars’ movie. In his latest book, Energy and Civilization: A History, he goes deep and broad to explain how innovations in humans’ ability to turn energy into heat, light, and motion have been a driving force behind our cultural and economic progress over the past 10,000 years.

—Bill Gates, Gates Notes, Best Books of the Year

Why You Should Read:

• Gain a profound understanding of how energy has been the cornerstone of human progress, influencing every aspect of society from agriculture to politics.
• Explore the transformative impact of the transition to fossil fuels and its ongoing effects on the environment and quality of life.
• Benefit from Vaclav Smil’s extensive research and updated insights, reflecting the latest developments in energy studies.
• Appreciate the interdisciplinary approach that offers a panoramic view of humanity’s energy eras, providing a comprehensive historical perspective.
• Discover the intellectual journey of harnessing energy, showcasing human ingenuity and the evolution of technology.