This book provides a comprehensive overview of the history of engines from ancient times to the present day. As the title suggests, much of the discussion focuses on the development and use of gas, petrol, and oil engines. Clerk explores the various types of engines that have been created over the years, and the ways in which they have revolutionized modern industry and transportation. His book is an invaluable resource for students of mechanical engineering, transportation, and anyone interested in the history of technology. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.