In "The Unbound Prometheus," David S. Landes masterfully charts the transformative journey of technological change and industrial development in Western Europe from the mid-18th century through the tumultuous upheavals of the 20th century. This seminal work, which expands upon Landes's influential chapter in the Cambridge Economic History of Europe, delves deep into the heart of the Industrial Revolution, exploring its genesis in Britain, its spread to France and Germany, and the profound political, economic, and social ramifications that followed. Landes's narrative is both a meticulous academic study and a compelling story of human ingenuity and its capacity to reshape the world. With an analytical eye, Landes addresses the pivotal question: why was Europe the cradle of industrialization? He examines the period between the World Wars, focusing on the dissolution of the old international economy, the turmoil of monetary instability, and the devastating economic crisis of 1929–1932, while also celebrating Britain's early recovery. Moving beyond the scars of the past, Landes's exploration culminates in the remarkable economic recovery of Western Europe post-World War II, prompting readers to ponder whether this boom signifies a fleeting moment in history or the dawn of a new era of accelerated growth and technological advancement. "The Unbound Prometheus" is not merely a history; it is a reflection on human progress, the challenges of international cooperation, and the unending quest for economic stability and growth amidst the forces of change.