Watch Dung Dynasty

Dung Dynasty is a fascinating and informative series from Smithsonian Channel that takes a closer look at the role of animal waste in human history. The show explores how feces from cattle, horses, pigs, and other animals has played a critical role in agriculture, warfare, and environmental sustainability throughout the centuries.

The first episode of the series kicks off by looking at the role of livestock in ancient agriculture. Viewers are taken on a journey to different regions around the world to see how animal dung was used as a natural fertilizer to enhance crop yields. From the fertile farmlands of the Nile Delta in ancient Egypt to the rice paddies in Asia, the show explores how cultures around the world relied on animal excrement to grow their crops.

The second episode of Dung Dynasty takes a closer look at the role of dung in warfare. Viewers are introduced to the ancient armies of Greece, who used burning piles of manure as a weapon to deter the enemy. In addition, the show takes a look at the first use of biological warfare in history, where Mongol soldiers catapulted the carcasses of dead animals over enemy walls to spread disease.

The third episode of the series delves into the innovative ways that people have used dung to create fuel for heating and cooking. From the cow patties used by nomadic herders in Mongolia to the human waste used to create biogas in modern-day India, the show explores the various methods of turning dung into energy.

The fourth episode of Dung Dynasty focuses on the role of animal waste in environmental sustainability. The show discusses how animal excrement can be used as a natural insecticide, preventing the need for harmful chemical sprays. In addition, viewers learn about the environmental benefits of manure in modern-day farming practices, including the ability to reduce runoff and prevent water pollution.

The final episode of Dung Dynasty takes a look at the future of animal waste in human civilization. The show discusses the potential uses of dung in renewable energy and as a source of valuable nutrients for plant-based diets. Viewers are encouraged to think about the many benefits of using animal excrement, including its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve soil health.

Overall, Dung Dynasty is an eye-opening series that explores an often-overlooked aspect of human history. By highlighting the various uses of animal dung throughout the centuries, the show encourages viewers to think about the role of waste in our modern-day society and how we can use it to create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

Dung Dynasty is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between July 14, 2020 and on Smithsonian Channel