Tracing the history of Grand Prix racing since the inaugural race was first held on a wartime airfield at Silverstone in 1950, this book examines how motor racing has evolved in spectacular fashion, developing from a minority sport followed by a dedicated few into the worldwide spectacle it is now. Although the book is broadly chronological, it does not describe every race ever run since the creation of the FIA Driver's World Championship, instead it captures the flavour of each period and identifies the trends and technical developments that characterise it. The history also includes a detailed results section.