The Great Bridge: The Epic Story of the Building of the Brooklyn Bridge

David McCullough tells the story of the Brooklyn Bridge's construction, one of America's boldest engineering achievements. Around 1870, during a period when Americans believed ambitious projects were possible, the idea emerged to build an unprecedented bridge across the East River connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. The fourteen-year project, spearheaded by the Roebling family, faced severe challenges. Workers were injured and killed, political conflicts arose, and public sentiment shifted throughout construction. The Roebling family experienced personal tragedies as well. Emily Roebling became instrumental in completing the bridge, defying the social expectations of her time. Beyond the engineering accomplishment, the narrative examines the social conditions of the era and the various figures—both heroic and corrupt—involved in the bridge's creation. The project also charts New York's development as a major city.