27th October 2015
Incendiary History: The Story of Fireworks
Dr Simon Werrett
Dr. Werrett’s talk explores the history and development of pyrotechnics from the middle ages in China up to the present day. Illustrated with rich visual and audio materials, the talk will show how fireworks have had many functions in the past, serving not just as entertainment but for everything from political propaganda and tools for imperial conquest to inspiring new scientific theories and technologies like gas heating and electric lighting.
Dr. Simon Werrett is a science historian and a senior lecturer in the Department of Science and Technology Studies at University College London. He has written numerous articles and essays on the history of fireworks and science and regularly appears on the radio to discuss pyrotechnic history. His book, Fireworks: Pyrotechnic Arts and Sciences in European History, was published by the University of Chicago Press in 2010.
Dr. Simon Werrett is a science historian and a senior lecturer in the Department of Science and Technology Studies at University College London. He has written numerous articles and essays on the history of fireworks and science and regularly appears on the radio to discuss pyrotechnic history. His book, Fireworks: Pyrotechnic Arts and Sciences in European History, was published by the University of Chicago Press in 2010.
The Society meets at the Hull Royal Hotel, 170 Ferensway, Hull HU1 3UF
All lectures are presented in the Royal Suite and start at 7.30pm prompt.
Doors are normally open at 6.45pm but access may be delayed if lecture preparations are not complete.
The audience are requested to please be in their seats before 7.25pm