Ep 2. The Hunley: New Revelations
- September 10, 2007
- 43 min
In season 4, episode 2 of Digging for the Truth titled "The Hunley: New Revelations," the audience will follow host Josh Bernstein as he uncovers new information about the H.L. Hunley, a Confederate submarine that mysteriously disappeared during the American Civil War.
The episode begins with a brief history of the submarine; the Hunley was the first submarine to successfully sink another warship in battle, but tragically sank during its third mission in 1864, killing all eight crew members on board. Bernstein travels to South Carolina, where the Hunley was discovered in 1995 and has since undergone extensive research and restoration.
Throughout the episode, Bernstein interviews experts who have dedicated their lives to uncovering the mysteries of the Hunley. They reveal new theories about why the submarine sank and provides compelling evidence for why certain hypotheses might be more accurate than others. Bernstein even gets to visit the facility where the Hunley rests, where he sees it for himself up close and learns more about its unique construction and design.
One of the most interesting aspects of the episode is the discovery of a previously unknown crew member. While the Hunley's crew roster was thought to only include eight men, new research discovered a ninth individual who may have been on board during the fateful mission. This revelation sparks a new investigation into the role this unknown crew member played and whether their presence may have contributed to the submarine's demise.
Additionally, Bernstein examines how the submarine's innovative design and engineering may have played a role in its history. The Hunley was the first submarine to use a torpedo as a weapon, and its unique propulsion system was powered by human muscle. Bernstein and his team explore the technical specifications of the submarine and the physical demands it placed on its crew while also evaluating how it would have fared in battle.
"The Hunley: New Revelations" is an informative and captivating episode that offers previously unknown insights into the history of this remarkable submarine. Whether you are a Civil War enthusiast or simply curious about the new discoveries surrounding the Hunley, this episode is a must-see for any fan of history and exploration.