Dr. Charles Ross, a Longwood University physics professor who is an expert on Civil War science and technology, will give a free talk Tuesday, April 7, at 3:30 p.m. in Longwood’s Greenwood Library on "Black Powder and the Cannon’s Roar."
The talk in the library atrium will examine how science and technology—including unusual battlefield acoustics—affected the Civil War, how the agrarian South became the best gunpowder manufacturer in the world and how a regiment of Pennsylvania miners dug a tunnel no one thought possible.
"Because the Civil War occurred as the United States was industrializing, the war saw creative uses of technology on the battlefield that led to more widespread understanding of science and technology," said Ross.
Ross’ study of Civil War science and technology has led to appearances on The History Channel, PBS, the National Geographic Channel and National Public Radio, and his work also has been featured in U.S. News and World Report, Science, Discover and other media outlets. He has written three books on this subject: Trial by Fire: Science, Technology and the Civil War; Civil War Acoustic Shadows; and Never for Want of Powder: The Confederate Powder Works.
After the talk, hosted by the library’s Special Collections department, attendees will have an opportunity to win a Barnes and Noble gift card, and light refreshments will be served. Books by Ross will be on display in the library atrium during March.
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