This is an extensive guide to the world's railways, tracing the extraordinary timeline from the early pioneers of the industrial revolution, to the leaning Pendolinos of the 21st century. It is illustrated with over 600 photographs ranging from the Puffing Billy to the Intercity. It includes a fascinating introduction to the history of railway manufacture, tracing its use from the earliest railroad to the electric innovations of the new millennium. Although the origins of the train are to be found in the Middle Ages, and the use of the steam power for locomotives emerged in the Industrial Revolution of the 18th century, the train really came of age in the Victorian era of the 19th century. This extensive guide introduces the world's railways and traces the extraordinary development of one of the most important mass transportation systems ever invented. Illustrated with over 600 pictures, "The World's Greatest Railways" explores how an explosion of technical ideas led to a railway boom and how economic demand led to the rapid development of railways throughout the world. It will be a welcome addition to any history buff's library and particularly anyone interested in transport and trains.