Limbaugh (emeritus, history, U. of the Pacific) provides a comprehensive study of tungsten, a rare heavy metal used to harden steel alloys, particularly those used in tool production, aerospace and electronics, and in military applications. The author provides an overview of the metal's use and importance in science and technology and the history of its mining and production. He also addresses the geopolitics of tungsten, particularly between the two world wars, and the complexities of efforts by the U.S. both national and international to protect and support its supply and its mining industry. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)