For the greatest achievement

the long version

A history of American aviation as viewed from the perspective of the two most influential organizations in the developing years of flight. This book explains some of the most misunderstood facets of early American aviation, delves into the causes behind policy shifts in the evolution of sport and commercial flight in America, and marks the progress in flight technology through the annual winners of the prestigious Collier Trophy. While this often-cited work is scholarly in nature, aviation scholars and history buffs alike will find it to be, as one reviewer described it, "gracefully written" and a pleasure to read. Contains extensive Appendicies, including lists of the earliest license holders for many different aircraft categories.