The Emergence of Scientific Hydrology in the Twentieth Century

The general growth of the scientific basis for hydrology is reviewed through reference to outstanding publications which in the opinion of the author represent landmarks in that process. The discussion is organised on the basis of four periods each with a special feature. These are(a) the period of empiricism(1900-1930), (b) the period of rationalisation (1930-1950), (c) the period of theorisation (1950-1975) and (d) the period of computerisation (1975-2000).