This book is the first comprehensive treatment of the history of British science and technology in relation to economic performance. Using a wealth of previously unknown statistical data, David Edgerton draws new and controversial conclusions about British innovation and technical training since 1870, and provides a unique guide to the debates around the subject. This book will be of interest to economic historians and political scientists, as well as scientists and engineers, and will be invaluable to students approaching the subject for the first time.