Sears Modern Homes
en.wikipedia.orgAn interesting look at America's building history.
Of course, today's housing issues are not technological in nature, but political. It's an almost entirely self-imposed constraint on building. Building a house isn't very difficult; one or two people with a few tools can throw up a livable, if small, house in just a few days. For the beginner, Larry Haun's learning material[0] is enlightening.