The Wonderful Century, originally published in 1898, is a unique book, offering a retrospective of the grand scope of the 19th century. British biologist & explorer Alfred Russel Wallace (1823-1913) discusses what he considers the successes of the last century, including advances made in modes of travel, mechanization, photography, analyses of light, physics, the study of dust, chemistry, astronomy, glaciers, geology, evolution & medicine. He also covers areas of study that haven't been advanced as much as he believes they should have been. Among the curious topics in the "Failure" section are phrenology, hypnotism & the fallacy of vaccination. It will amuse modern readers that many of the areas he thought needed better elucidation in the future have since been proven false. History buffs as well as readers wishing to be entertained by past viewpoints will find this book an engaging read.