"Indigenous Engineering" explores the often-overlooked ingenuity of ancient civilizations, highlighting their contributions to architecture, transportation, and water management. It argues that understanding these early innovations is crucial for a comprehensive view of engineering history and offers valuable lessons for contemporary sustainable design. The book examines architectural marvels like Mesoamerican pyramids, explores sophisticated transportation networks such as the Inca road system, and investigates ingenious irrigation methods like terraced farming.
The book is structured to first introduce the fundamental concepts of indigenous engineering and its significance in a historical context. Subsequent chapters delve into specific case studies, examining the architectural, transportation, and irrigation systems of selected indigenous cultures.
What sets this book apart is its focus on the engineering principles embedded within indigenous practices, moving beyond a purely historical or anthropological perspective. It analyzes these innovations through the lens of modern engineering, revealing the underlying scientific and mathematical principles at play.
