The History and Importance of Civil Engineering

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Anon, a prolific writer, once wrote, ”I am an Engineer, I serve mankind, by making dreams come true”(Bennett). Engineers make dreams come true by creating magnificent structures that amaze even the most impractical people. The hard work and dedication of engineers can be easily seen by opening a window and viewing the structures that adorn the earth. The structures that civil engineers design and build define the culture of a society and help to keep pace with a constantly changing world.

Bridges, highways, drinking water- just a few necessities to the modern world, made possible by engineers throughout history, specifically civil engineers. Tracing back to 4000 BC, civil engineering has revolutionized the lifestyles of the world population. In ancient times skilled workers called artisans carried out most construction. These artisans accomplished their engineering feats by the use of only manual labor. Without the use of the specialized equipment used today, simple projects could take up to years to finish. Although labor time was great, the determined engineers never ceased to create the structures that defined the essence of their society. The Pyramids of Egypt and the Great Wall of China are great examples of achievements by engineers that symbolize the heart of their civilizations. The Roman engineers play a critical role in the health of their people with the development of aqueducts, bridges, and dams. Each empire throughout history give today’s world an essential structure that help the modern world to survive (Stonecyper).

Civil engineers today perform duties in planning, designing, and overseeing construction of buildings, structures, and facilities, such as roads, railroads, airports, bridges, harb...

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...lt that.”

Works Cited

Basta, Nicholas. Opportunities in Engineering Careers. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2003.

151-161. Print.

Bennett, Richard, Price, Rob, et al. "Engineering Quotes." UK Civil Engineering Limited, Online

Posting to Info 4 Engineering. Web. 23 Jan. 2012.

CareerZone."Civil Engineers." New York State Department of Labor, 20 Feb 2009 . Web.

CNN Money. Dickler, Jessica, Lee Anne C., and Swiatek Greg. "Best jobs for fast

growth." (2011): n.pag.. Web. 23 Jan 2012.

Cortese, Anthony. "The Role of Engineers in Creating an Environmentally Sustainable

Future." (1998): n. page. Web. 23 Jan. 2012.

Hall, James. E-mail Interview. 25-1-2012.

Project Partners. "Salary Range for Civil Engineering .". N.p., 2010. Web. 26 Jan 2012.

Stonecyper, Lamar. "History of Civil Engineering." 3 February 2011: n. page. Web. 23 Jan. 2012.

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