J. Parker Lamb retired in 2001, after a 42-year career as a practicing engineer and university instructor, to pursue his life-long interest in the history of American technology with an emphasis on railroad developments. He has authored four books, including Perfecting the American Steam Locomotive (IUP, 2003). He lives in Austin, Texas.

"A host of books and articles have touched on various aspects of this ongoing story over the years, but none tell the story with the completeness and superb clarity found here. May - June 2010"—Michigan Railfan"Lamb's book is . . . an important contribution to railroad technological history. The book's strength is the author's mastery of the mechanical details, which he presents in a straightforward style."—Mark Reutter, editor, Railroad History"Lamb provides the reader with detailed descriptions of every generation of diesel locomotive along with a generous supply of excellent photographs. July 2008"—Maury Klein, Technology and Culture vol. 49

• PrefaceChapter 1Precursor TechnologiesChapter 2Self-propelled CoachesChapter 3 The Diesel Climbs AboardChapter 4Streamlined TrainsChapter 5 Developments Beyond La GrangeChapter 6Alco ReboundsChapter 7Postwar ShakeoutChapter 8Road Switchers Take OverChapter 9A Monopolized MarketChapter 10Special Purpose DesignsChapter 10 New Heights for Diesel PowerChapter 12Recent DevelopmentsChapter 13The Diesel Century in PerspectiveReferencesIndex