Ep 6. Infamous Murders: The Poisoners

In this episode of History's Mysteries, the focus is on some of the most notorious poisoners in history. Poisoning has been a preferred method of murder for centuries, and this episode delves into the stories of those who have used it to deadly effect.

Beginning with a look at ancient Rome, where poison was viewed as a viable means of political assassination, the show explores the stories of powerful women who used it to gain and maintain their positions of influence. One notable example is Agrippina the Younger, who used poison to eliminate her rivals and ensure her son, Nero, ascended to the throne.

Moving forward in history, the show examines the case of Mary Ann Cotton, a serial killer from England who poisoned her husbands, lovers, and children to collect insurance money. Cotton was eventually caught and hanged, but not before earning a reputation as one of the most prolific and cold-blooded killers in British history.

The story of William Palmer, a Victorian doctor who used strychnine to murder several people, including his own brother, is also featured. Palmer was known for his charm and suave demeanor, which helped him evade suspicion for a time. He was eventually caught and executed, and his case was one of the most widely-publicized trials of the era.

Another infamous case explored in the episode is that of Lucrezia Borgia, whose reputation as a poisoner may be somewhat exaggerated but whose role in the Italian Renaissance was nonetheless influential. The show examines the circumstances surrounding the deaths of several of Borgia's enemies and explores the question of whether she really was the mastermind behind it all.

Perhaps one of the most fascinating segments of the episode explores the life of Mary Ann Tocker, a 19th-century woman who claimed to be immune to poison. Tocker's unique ability was tested repeatedly, and while she did survive numerous attempts to poison her, she eventually succumbed to a dose of arsenic that was simply too much for even her body to handle.

Finally, the episode turns to the story of Graham Young, a British teenager who became known as the "Teacup Poisoner." Young was obsessed with poison from a young age and began experimenting with it, eventually killing several people with his deadly concoctions. He was eventually caught and sentenced to life in prison, where he continued to study toxins until his death.

Overall, Infamous Murders: The Poisoners is a gripping and suspenseful look at some of history's most deadly killers. The episode combines expert analysis and reenactments to bring the stories to life and shed light on what drove these individuals to commit such heinous acts. Whether you're a true-crime buff or simply enjoy learning about history's more macabre moments, this episode is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.