Toward the end of the nineteenth century the need for a faster and more economical method of typesetting became urgent. An answer to this problem was provided by Ottmar Mergenthaler, who developed a fully automatic machine capable of casting an entire line of metal type from small brass molds that were assembled by means of a keyboard. Known as “Linotype,” this machine was acclaimed as the long-awaited answer for printers and publishers. Today improved versions of the Linotype are used throughout the world. Awake! is among many publications typeset in this way.

First, it was realized that the concept of metal type has an inherent disadvantage. It is inseparably bound by mechanical limitations. The casting of molten metal cannot be hastened beyond a point. Furthermore, the weight and physical nature of the type set limitations that, in turn, affect speed.