From 1800 to the mid-twentieth century the burning of coal provided nearly all the power for British industry and transport. It also provided heat for homes. By distillation it produced gas for lighting and cooking and coke for the production of iron. Coal mining caused great disruption of the landscape. 'Dirt' removed from the coal was tipped in huge heaps around the mines and sinking of the land due to coal extraction below could cause flooding and great damage to property. This book briefly describes the technicalities of coal mining but the reader will also learn that coal mining was and remains a dangerous occupation. Please Note - this is a general book on Coal Mining in the UK and not specific to Welsh Coal Mining.