The Legacy of Hiram Maxim

This chapter examines the life and innovations of Hiram Maxim, the inventor of the machine gun, and his complicated relationship with the moral implications of weapon design. It explores his upbringing, early inventions, and the social context that influenced his work, from communal living to the challenges of gaining support for his ideas. Additionally, the narrative reflects on his tumultuous partnerships and the significant industrial events of his time, including the 1881 Paris Exposition.