Nasmyth

Collier's New Encyclopedia (1921)

JAMES, a British engineer and astronomer ; son of A. Nasmyth; born in Edinburgh, Scotland , Aug. 19, 1808. He was educated at the School of Arts, Edinburgh , and in engineering under Maudsley in London. He removed in 1834 to Manchester , England, where he became a successful machine constructor and inventor. The steam hammer, which has rendered possible the immense forgings now employed, was invented by him in 1839. The steam pile driver, and the safety foundry ladle, are among his other inventions. He also acquired fame as a practical astronomer. He died in London , England, May 7, 1890. NASR-ED-DIN (Shah of Persia). born in Teheran in 1831; died in 1896. Though not the eldest son of his father, Mohammed Mirza, the influence of his mother caused used him to be proclaimed heir. Came to the throne in 1848. His right of accession was strongly disputed by El Beb, a leader of the people, but the new Shah succeeded in holding his throne. At an early age he showed himself keenly alive to the deficiencies of his people and made a deep study of western European methods of government, finance, and military organization. In 1856 he precipitated a war with Great Britain by his occupation of Herat, hostilities lasting a year. Later he made a number of visits to western Europe and established friendly relations, especially with London. His reign marked a long step in advance toward civilization by his people, especially in the field of applied science. He was finally assassinated by political opponents.