The Hajj as its Own Undoing: Infrastructure and Integration on the Muslim Journey to Mecca.

An essay is presented on the effects of steam transportation infrastructure on the Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, known as the hajj. According to the author, industrial transport networks brought Muslim travelers into increased contact with non-Muslim spaces, ideas, peoples, and technologies. Particular focus is given to evidence drawn from pilgrims' writings. Topics discussed include globalization and imperialism.