An History of Typography

When I was in graduate school, I was in a class called "Historical Research Methods" for one day. I bailed on the class when I was sent to the library to read an article called: "An History of History." The pretentiousness of the title alone was enough to turn me off, and I think I may have read only a paragraph or two before I decided that I didn't need this course in my curriculum. I don't think I've ever regretted that decision, made that summer day.

However: this history of typography isn't pretentious at all, and the folks who have "reprinted" it on the web have embellished (with the author's permission) with links to other sites that enhance the article and make it useful beyond just knowing.

I know that I'm a few weeks ahead on our typography discussion, but I wanted you to read this before we got to it in class, so I wouldn't have to do more than hit the high-points of typography history.

http://www.graphic-design.com/typography/design/brief-history-typography

Speaking of fonts: here's a link to 45 free ones. Who doesn't like free fonts?

http://www.noupe.com/fonts/45-outstanding-free-vintage-fonts.html