This volume investigates the foundational principles and mathematical framework of Albert Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity through a curated collection of primary source documents. C. W. Kilmister, a mathematician and physicist, compiles these readings to provide students and researchers with direct access to the historical development of relativistic physics. The text serves as an educational bridge, connecting the conceptual shifts of the early 20th century with the rigorous mathematical proofs required for advanced study.

Experts highlight this as a foundational text for students seeking to understand the historical evolution of physics through primary source material. Readers frequently note the academic density of the prose, which requires a solid background in undergraduate-level mathematics to fully comprehend.