ABSTRACT
The power of the wind has remained a constant throughout the history of the planet. It made placid seas churn with violent waves. Its force swept across the land, rearranging the topography, creating dunes in some places and eroding hilltops in others. Creation and erosion signaled its power and presence. Dust storms became a signature event by moving topsoil across continents. In human history, its energy powered filled sails and the blades of early windmills to raise groundwater to the surface and grind grain into flour. Over time, the increasing size and efficiency of windmills assumed many more functions. The invention of turbines a mechanical breakthrough set the stage for the modern technology of wind power. After examining its premodern uses, the chapter expands on the abbreviated history of wind power found in Chapter 2, which focused primarily on waterpower.
