Understanding silicon valley

What has made Silicon Valley so productive of new technologies and new firms? How did its pioneering achievements begin - in computer networking, semiconductors, personal computing, and the Internet - and what forces have propelled its unprecedented growth? This collection of nine chapters by contributors from varied disciplines - business, geography, history, regional planning, and sociology - examines the history, development, and entrepreneurial dynamics of Silicon Valley. Part I, History, provides context for the Valleys success by exploring its early industrial roots. It traces the development of the electronics industry in Silicon Valley back to the founding of Federal Telegraph in 1908, and discusses the role of defense spending and the relationship with Stanford University in the regions growth. Part II, Institutions, emphasizes the importance of supporting institutions and practices in helping Valley startups succeed.