Abstract
After several unsuccessful attempts in preceding years, the first successful transatlantic cable installation was successfully installed and commissioned in 1866. This giant step in global communications was the first of many cable installations that gave the United States the technology to break away from the physical and intellectual isolation from Europe and the rest of the world. Starting with the telegraph, followed by the telephone and most recently the Internet; the government, business sector and finally the general public were given access to increasingly accessible and affordable bi-directional and interactive communications. The technology of telecommunications has provided a most efficient ...