Copyright: Its History and Its Law

by R. R. Bowker

Richard Rogers Bowker, the American editor and publisher, campaigned for decades for stronger copyright protection and international agreements, and this book of 1912 summarizes the principles and practice of copyright with special reference to the American law of 1909. He begins with the nature and origin of copyright and its history in England and the United States, then explains what can be copyrighted, who may own it, how long it lasts, the formalities of registration, dramatic, musical and artistic rights, infringement, fair use and remedies. Later chapters treat international conventions, the British Empire, other countries and the business relations of author and publisher, with the text of statutes in appendices. It is available to read online in your browser on Vinteuil, and the first chapter is free.