Ep 7. Impossible Army Machines
- TV-PG
- December 1, 2008
- 44 min
-
7.1 (8)
In season 4 episode 7 of Ancient Discoveries, viewers are taken on a journey through time to explore the impossible army machines of the ancient world. From giant siege engines to deadly war chariots, the episode delves into the innovative technologies that facilitated military conquests thousands of years ago.
The episode begins by examining the earliest forms of siege engines, such as battering rams and siege towers, used by the ancient Greeks and Romans. The show explains how these tall structures were used to gain an advantage over enemy fortifications, and shows how these massive machines were constructed and transported to battlefields.
Next, the episode moves on to the innovative ballista, a type of artillery that used torsion to launch large projectiles. Viewers get an up-close look at how these impressive machines were built and operated by the ancient Greeks and Romans, and how they were used in military campaigns to devastating effect.
The episode then transitions to the armored war chariot, which changed the face of ancient warfare. Using state-of-the-art technology, the chariot quickly became a fearsome weapon on the battlefield with its ability to carry archers and spearmen into battle at high speeds. The Ancient Discoveries team examines how the ancient Egyptians and Hittites used these machines to great success in battle.
As the episode moves forward in time, viewers learn about one of the most famous ancient weapons: the trebuchet. Used by many different civilizations throughout history, the trebuchet was a powerful siege engine that used a counterweight to launch large projectiles over walls and barriers. The episode shows how the ancient Chinese and Persians used trebuchets in battle, and what made these machines so effective.
Finally, the show explores one of the most innovative and impossible military machines of the ancient world: the war elephant. The episode delves into the tactics used by ancient armies to train and use these massive creatures in battle, and how their size and strength made them nearly invincible on the battlefield.
Throughout the episode of Ancient Discoveries, viewers are treated to stunning visuals and expert commentary on the engineering and strategy behind these incredible military machines. From the earliest forms of siege engines to the most advanced chariots and elephants, the episode of Ancient Discoveries offers a rare glimpse into the ingenuity and resourcefulness of ancient civilizations.