Watch Pure History

2011
1 Season

Pure History is a captivating documentary series produced by CreateSpace that explores the richness and depth of history through engaging narratives and close analysis of the events that shaped the world we live in today. The show delves into the lives of famous historical figures, uncovers details of significant events, and sheds light on the cultural and political forces that shaped the past.

The series comprises of several episodes, each of which covers a different period of history, ranging from ancient civilizations to modern times. By using a mix of reenactments, documents, and rare archival footage, Pure History presents an immersive and informative journey into the past.

One episode of Pure History covers the reign of Cleopatra in ancient Egypt. The episode paints a vivid picture of the queen's life, the intrigues of palace politics during her reign, and how she navigated the complex relationships with Rome as she tried to preserve Egypt's independence. Through the use of stunning reenactments, we see her impact the world and inspire women in leadership positions.

Another episode of Pure History takes us to the World War II era to examine the events that led to D-Day - the largest amphibious invasion in history. In this episode, the show casts a spotlight on the lives of the soldiers who fought in the war and how their unity and sacrifice changed the course of the conflict. In doing so, the episode pays homage to the courage and bravery of the Allied soldiers who fought to liberate Europe from the Nazis.

Pure History also examines significant cultural movements that shaped history. For example, one episode explores the Harlem Renaissance and how it became a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement in America. The episode highlights the work of prominent writers, artists, and musicians of the time, and how their work fuelled a renewed interest in Black culture, people and agency. The episode brings the creativity and talent of this period of American history back to life.

Pure History also offers an exciting glimpse into the ancient world. The show examines the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, the reign of the Chinese emperor Qin Shihuangdi, and the intrigues of the Assyrian Empire. Through the reenactments and use of historical documents, Pure History exposes details about the lives and reigns of the emperors and how their decisions impacted their empire and the wider world.

The series also explores age-old debates such as the existence of Atlantis, the conquests of Alexander the Great, and the meaning behind the Pyramids of Giza, which offers viewers new insights into these popularly debated topics.

Overall, Pure History offers a masterful blend of storytelling, narrative analysis, and historical accuracy. The series brings history to life in a way that is both informative and engaging, reigniting interest in the people, events, and cultural movements that shaped our world today.

In conclusion, if you're a history buff or have an interest in the events of the past, Pure History is a must-watch show. The series offers a unique insight into the past, providing a deeper understanding of some of the world's significant events, cultures, and historical figures. It does a great job of making the past come alive and in doing so, inspires viewers to continue to engage with the world of history.

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Seasons

190. a King in Waiting

April 6, 2014

To be Prince of Wales has always been a difficult job. History is littered with royal heirs to the throne who have caused turmoil within the Royal Family, and despite his best intentions, history would prove this Prince to be no different.

189. Archeology and the Dead Sea Scrolls

November 9, 1998

Many secrets of antiquity would be lost forever if it weren't for the special skills of archeologists. See how these patient men and women found and preserved one of the greatest finds in history.

187. Inside Hamas

March 9, 2011

Developed over two years and with unprecedented access to the heart of the 'terrorist' organization, this documentary uncovers the reality of daily life in Gaza under Hamas.

185. the Kings Man Legacy

January 1, 2012

Shakespeare's late plays are often viewed as mellow swansongs. But during the last years of his life, Shakespeare was still experimenting and writing about subjects close to home.

181. Hidden Killers of the Edwardian Home

December 17, 2013

The dawn of the 20th century ushered in an era of fresh inventions and innovations: Electricity, refrigeration and many other materials promised to make life easier and more convenient. But lack of understanding meant that they frequently led to death.

180. Hidden Killers of the Victorian Home

December 10, 2013

From the food they ate to the clothes they wore, the Victorians were surrounding themselves with killers. What made taking a bath and drinking milk potentially so dangerous? And how did the Victorian woman turn herself into a walking fire hazard?

179. Swimming in Auschwitz

January 30, 2007

Six Jewish women, from different countries and different backgrounds, found themselves deported to the notorious concentration camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau, during the Holocaust. This film attempts to chronicle that experience through those same female eyes.

177. Infiltrators

May 9, 2013

For Palestinians, trying to travel from the West Bank to Jerusalem is a journey made almost impossible by checkpoints and restricted permits. See what lengths people will go to in order to see family.

176. Dead in the Water

February 26, 2015

During the Six-Day War, Israel attacked and nearly sank the USS Liberty belonging to its closest ally, the USA. Israel claimed that the whole affair had been a tragic accident based on mistaken identification of the ship, but was it?

175. The Extraordinary Tale of William Buckley

February 18, 2015

This incredible docudrama tells the remarkable true story of an escaped convict who spent 32 years living with an Aboriginal tribe in Australia before white colonization. Thought to be a spirit, he was forced to learn the native culture, or perish.

174. Birth of the Smart Bomber

March 26, 2015

One of the least known stories from WWII is finally told. After countless missed bombings, British scientists developed a navigation system so accurate that planes could drop their bombs within feet of their intended target.

174. Defusing Human Bombs

April 24, 2011

Defusing Human Bombs is the incredible story of the Sabaoon School in Pakistan, which uses both psychology and religion to undo years of Taliban indoctrination in the hearts and minds of young boys training to become suicide bombers.

172. Lost Treasures of the Temple

May 23, 2012

The Temple Mount was considered one of the world's most beautiful structures and its destruction set the stage for 2000 tumultuous years of Jewish history. Today the Temple Mount remains at the center of conflict & a new discovery could open a new debate.

169. Dance of the Severed Head

February 8, 2015

The spectacular 250 year old Gajon Folk Festival in Kurmun, India, culminates in a controversial dance with a decayed human head. Karma Wangchuk, a filmmaker from Bhutan, has been granted access to find out more about this mysterious ritual.

167. Jesus The Cold Case

February 5, 2015

2000 years ago, Jesus of Nazareth was crucified in Jerusalem. The question is, why? According to the gospels, it was because his fellow Jews found him guilty of blasphemy; they had him executed by the Roman, Pontius Pilot. How true is this story?

166. Leonardo The Man Behind the Shroud

December 25, 2001

The Shroud of Turin: sacred Christian relic or clever fake? It must have been by someone with extraordinary technical and artistic skills. The evidence points to one of the greatest geniuses ever. Was Leonardo da Vinci the man behind the shroud of Turin?

165. Rwandas Lost Tribe

August 1, 2003

Akagera National Park in Rwanda used to be a place of spectacular landscapes and wildlife and a refuge to the proud Bahima tribe. Now the wild herds have been slaughtered, the predators hunted out and the Bahima have gone.

164. Naked Terracotta Warriors

February 1, 2013

An in-depth look at the lost burial site of Emperor Jing Di's hidden army. Lost for over 2,000 years, this immense site covers 81 burial pits, each containing various goods for the afterlife, and as many as 100,000 terracotta figures.

163. The Devil We Know

June 6, 2011

Satan, the enemy of God and humanity is as old as religion itself. But the Devil We Know isn't even a thousand years old. Who is the Devil? Where does he come from? Where does his image come from?

162. Samurai Sword the Making of a Legend

February 4, 2005

This story of the Katana sword provides a unique insight into the Samurai masters and the swords they use. Probably the most recognized of all martial arts weapons, the Katana wows audiences of an extremely wide genre.

161. The Norse: An Arctic Mystery

January 4, 2015

The History books say that the first European to contact the Native Americans was Christopher Columbus. New evidence tells a different story, showing that centuries earlier, a civilization had already beaten him there. These people were the Norse.

160. The Pharaoh's Holy Treasure

September 13, 2007

In 1952, a young archaeologist discovered two mysterious green objects buried in a cave by the Dead Sea. 53 years on, and British metallurgist Robert Feather is deciphering messages from ancient scrolls and solving cryptic messages with startling results.

159. In Search of Beethoven

December 17, 2014

If we had to choose ten great things about humanity, there would probably be several Beethoven works amongst them. This is the story of one of the gods of western music, Ludwig Van Beethoven.

157. Cutty Sark: Out of the Ashes

February 6, 2010

On the 140th anniversary of the Cutty Sark's maiden voyage, and for the first time on television, Ben Fogle presents the full story of this world-famous ship and the dramatic bid to save her.

156. Nero's Golden House

May 29, 2014

It was once the grandest building on earth. Built by the most infamous emperor in history, it was a building that played host to violence, sexual perversion and great beauty. Welcome to Nero's Golden House.

152. We Went to War

March 29, 2013

In 1970, Michael Grigsby made the award winning I WAS A SOLDIER, which focused on David, Dennis and Lamar, recently returned veterans from Vietnam. WE WENT TO WAR picks up their gripping emotional story over 40 years later.

151. Great Bank Robberies

April 2, 2000

Using dramatic reconstructions and exclusive interviews from both sides of the law, this film examines the planning and execution of three of the most incredible and ingenious robberies of the century.

150. The Surprising History of Sex & Love

November 10, 2002

Terry Jones of Monty Python takes us on a journey examining sex and love throughout history. Trace the unexpected route of how sex got from strict social repression to the full-frontal pornography of today.

150. Words of Everest

October 23, 2014

History comes to life as actors read the journals of the British expedition of climb the summit of Mt. Everest. Mixed with actual footage of the expedition as well as recreations, this documentary takes viewers on an agonizing journey to the top of world.

149. Hidden Heroes of the Holocaust: Remembering the Rescuers

October 1, 1999

The Nazis nearly succeeded because of ordinary people who just went about their business. Yet in the darkness shone a light. This documentary features relives both the Jews' terrifying experiences and the daring accounts of those who saved them.

148. Blood On the Altar

October 16, 2014

The Greeks and Romans describe the Phoenicians as a morally corrupt race who forcibly prostituted their daughters and killed their own young to win favor with their violent gods. Were they truly evil or victims of a vicious propaganda campaign?

145. Antisocial Old Buggers

June 20, 2005

There's a new scourge causing mayhem in Great Britain and it's not who you might expect! These seniors have received Antisocial Behavior Orders, been barred from local businesses, face eviction, have extensive criminal records, and more.

144. The Spy Who Went Into the Cold: Kim Philby, Soviet Super Spy

November 18, 2013

At the height of the Cold War, a well-educated Englishman called Kim Philby defected to Moscow - for the best part of thirty years he had been spying for the Soviet Union. Fifty years on, more questions than answers surround his legacy.

143. The Sex Bomb of World War II

June 28, 2004

The story of Sefton Delmer and the use of pornography as a weapon of propaganda during the Second World War.

140. Cambodia: the Shadows of Angkor

September 29, 2014

Unlike most, Cambodia's monarchy is not hereditary, the next monarch is chosen by the National Assembly from a pool of eligible candidates. When Sihamoni, a ballet dancer, was chosen, what sort of monarch were they hoping to crown?

137. Extreme Treasures: Vermeer

July 14, 2004

"A Young Woman Seated at the Virginals." After years of study, analysis and restoration, this painting was the first work of Johannes Vermeer to be auctioned in over 80 years.

136. South Pacific: Islands of War

April 17, 2013

Every year, thousands of people flock to the crystal clear waters and white sands of the South Pacific islands, but few realize that these idyllic atolls conceal some of the bloodiest secrets of World War II.

135. Afghanistan Unveiled

July 15, 2014

When Western forces brought down the Taliban in 2001, they claimed that part of their mission was to "˜help liberate the women of Afghanistan' who had been refused basic human rights under that regime. Is this actually the case though?

134. Young Elizabeth: From Princess to Queen Part 2

June 12, 2014

Elizabeth II was the first child of The Duke and Duchess of York. Despite being third in line to the throne after Edward, Prince of Wales, and her father, it was never expected that the young princess would be Queen.

129. Edward VIII: From King to Duke

June 10, 2014

Edward was the eldest son of King George V and Queen Mary. He was created Prince of Wales on his 16th birthday. As a young man, he served in the British Armed Forces during the First World War and undertook several overseas tours on behalf of his father.

128. Japan: Banzai Tenno, Long Live the Emperor

September 18, 2014

A look into Japan's Chrysanthemum Throne and the controversy surrounding the vagaries of the royal hereditary system and how the stripping of its 'divine' nature since WWII has affected the monarchy and its relationship with its people.

127. Wallis Simpson: The Secret Letters

August 24, 2011

Wallis Simpson was at the center of a national scandal when she was seen to ensnare Edward VIII and lure him from the throne. Recently discovered letters reveal her secret love and her fear as she found herself becoming trapped into marrying Edward VIII

126. Nat Turner: A Troublesome Property

February 16, 2003

Nat Turner's slave rebellion is a watershed even in America's history of racial conflict. A groundbreaking exploration of this event, this documentary tells the story of that violent confrontation and the ways it's been continuously re-told since 1831.

125. Sea of Death

March 30, 2014

20,000 German civilians lost their lives when Soviet submarines torpedoed three refugee ships in the Baltic sea at the end of the WWII. We go beneath the waves to view the wrecks of the Wilhelm Gustloff, Steuben and Goya and hear the survivors' stories.

123. Hitler of the Andes

January 28, 2003

The end of Adolf Hitler's life has been shrouded in mystery. Did he truly die at his bunker in Berlin? Delve into declassified FBI documents and testimonials that reveal the American authorities' theories that Hitler may have survived World War II.

121. Waking the Titanic

March 11, 2014

A new and intimate perspective of the Titanic tragedy: focusing not on the glory and fate of the doomed ship, but the ordinary lives and fragile hopes of the community that lost more of its population that fateful April night than any other.

120. The Hidden History of Rome

March 10, 2014

f you thought you knew the ancient world, think again. This program presented by Terry Jones, is packed full of surprising and little-known facts that throw new light on our understanding of the ancient Romans.

118. D-Day: the Shortest Day

March 6, 2014

Life, said the survivors, was never quite the same again. The Shortest Day documents the meticulous planning leading up to the world's biggest amphibious invasion, the terror and triumph of the landings.

117. Digging for Jesus

March 3, 2014

A generation ago there was a fierce scholarly argument about whether Jesus ever lived. 'Digging For Jesus' explores ten top archaeological digs that take us closer to revealing more about the man from Galilee.

115. Ancient Inventions of Sex

March 2, 2014

Sex and Love is the focus of the final program. Somebody had to invent the kiss... and the mechanical clock was not invented to tell the time as such, but to keep track of a Chinese emperor's sex life!

114. Ancient Inventions of War

February 27, 2014

Examines the search for the ultimate weapon, as well as the ability of doctors to repair the damage such weapons cause. Byzantine flame throwers, Chinese poison gas and successful surgical techniques as complex as brain surgery...

111. The Bigamist Bride: My Five Husbands

October 22, 2009

Emily Horne has been married five times, but never bothered to get divorced. But behind the lurid headlines lies a darker tale of mental illness, addiction, and neglect.

110. I Killed John Lennon

December 8, 2005

Meet Mark Chapman: the man who murdered John Lennon. In a series of newly released taped interviews, Chapman reveals the inner workings of his mind, and what drove him to murder one of the most beloved musicians of his generation.

109. The Pirates of Somalia

February 20, 2014

With unique, perilous access on board a hijacked ship, 'Pirates Of Somalia' is the true story behind the rise of piracy in Somalia and follows a group of youths on a pirate skiff as they hunt for ships to hijack.

108. The 9/11 Faker

September 11, 2008

Tania Head - a survivor from the 9/11 attacks - made it her job to help other survivors toward emotional recovery. That is, until the facts of her story fell through, and she uncovered as a fraud. Find out the facts behind this story of betrayal.

107. Mountains and Man: In the Shadow of Giants

February 9, 2014

The great sculptures of the natural world, mountains occupy a quarter of the land on the Earth's surface. Since the dawn of civilization, man has made his home in the shadow of these giants - his life dictated by the mighty summits and valleys.

106. Captain Morgan's Mystery Ships

February 6, 2014

Morgan virtually ran a private pirate fleet in the Caribbean up until his death in 1688. We bring to life the most colorful period of Western history thanks to a discovery that could be the maritime equivalent of the Valley of the Kings.

105. D-Day Invasion Maps

February 2, 2014

A map can be the most powerful weapon a nation can use against its enemies. See how the maps of WWII played a crucial role in the war, and the incredible measures that were taken to obtain crucial information.

104. The Mercator Atlas

January 30, 2014

A map can be a treasure worth even more than gold, revealing powerful information that could destroy a nation. Skilled mapmakers were prized by Europe's Kings and Queens, but what happens when those maps are sold to the highest bidder?

102. War Horse: The Real Story

March 4, 2012

For centuries, Britain's cavalry had been one of the staples of its military force. But with the dawn of World War I, a bloody end was beginning for the war horse. Go inside the real history of the WWI British Cavalry's heroic last charge.

101. Lockerbie: Death of a Terrorist

January 19, 2014

More than 21 years after the UK's worst terrorist atrocity, the man convicted of murdering 270 people has died. But his death will do little to assuage the controversy surrounding his final years and the pain afflicted by the Lockerbie bombing.

100. Tobin: Portrait of a Serial Killer

October 15, 2010

As Peter Tobin awaits his third murder conviction, Real Crime attempts to discover whether this vicious killer is in fact Britain's worst serial killer by interviewing criminologists, psychologists, and survivors of Tobin's monstrous actions.

99. Nazi Hate Rock

December 5, 2009

Nazi Hate Rock is a shocking, first-time investigation into the disturbing rise of the racist and anti-semitic music industry across North America and Europe, and reveals how young people are being drawn to the gospel of "˜White Power'.

98. The Search for Sherlock Holmes

April 17, 2009

He one of the most loved characters of all time, and the main novel of his adventures is said to be the third most read publication in the world behind the Bible and Dictionary. Investigate the phenomenon of Sherlock Holmes in this revealing documentary.

97. Bedlam: The History of Bethlem Hospital

March 18, 2010

Following years of secrecy, the Bethlem Royal Hospital in London became infamous in the 1600's for its inhumane and cruel treatments of its "mad" patients. Explore the gruesome history of the world's most well known mental institution.

96. The Flying Scotsman: A Rail Romance

March 4, 2013

Built in 1923, the Flying Scotsman was the first steam locomotive to run at 100 miles an hour and to star in its own feature film. This is the untold story of the iconic Flying Scotsman - the very best in the engineering of its time.

94. Mao's China vs. India

December 18, 2013

For over fifty years, the Chinese army guarded a top-secret film record of the Cold War. Now, this film showcases front line footage, combined with first-person accounts, revealing the secret conflicts the Red Army fought and won from behind the Iron Curt

91. Amazonian Justice Boat

March 1, 2012

When people talk about the Amazon, it is usually in regards to deforestation. But there are also people living on the river. Though they can travel locally, the city authorities are too far a distance to traverse. This is where the Justice Boat can help.

90. The Last Mermaids

October 1, 2009

For over 2,000 years, the women of Jeju Island off South Korea have survived by becoming Haenyos - women sea divers. The Last Mermaids follows these women as they dive deep into the ocean with only their leaded belts and a sharp knife, in order to survive.

89. The Secret D-Day Disaster Revealed

March 20, 2012

How did a rehearsal for D-Day on a sleep British coast result in the death of hundreds of Allied soldiers? Survivor and eye-witness accounts, top-secret documents, and new evidence help reveal the secrecy around "Exercise Tiger" that persists to this day.

88. Battle of the Somme: The True Story

July 4, 2006

The Battle of the Somme was the bloodiest day in the history of England. Since then, debate has raged over the legitimacy of the only combat footage of the battle. Now, a team of investigators is using science to solve this 90-year-old mystery.

87. Toumai, The Oldest Human Ancestor

June 11, 2006

The oldest human ancestor recorded to date, better known as Toumai, is seven million years old and has just "crash-landed" in the world of the living. The entire history of humankind is thrown into question.

86. Australian Tribal Art

November 17, 2013

Griff Rhys Jones travels o the remote Torres Strait Islands between Australia and Papua New Guinea to explore what remains of an unusually creative and warlike culture. What made their art so striking and powerful?

84. African Tribal Art

November 14, 2013

Griff Rhys Jones continues his quest to find traditional art in remote places by travelling to West Africa. Antique carvings can fetch millions of pounds, but what makes a piece 'authentic', and are they still being made? Is there such a thing as pure Afr

83. The Bombing of Darwin

February 19, 2012

The bombing of Darwin by the Japanese during WWII was the only time Australia has ever faced war on its own soil. But in the midst of chaos, a government cover-up hid the devastation from the public eye. Discover the truth behind the Bombing of Darwin.

82. Brat Academy

November 2, 2008

While China's one-child policy has stemmed its population boom, it also had unexpected side effects. With so many "only children," behavioral problems are the new norm. Brat Academies are many parents' last chance at turning their wayward children around.

80. The Oldest Mummies in the World

October 15, 2013

Nine thousand year-old mummies have been found, not in Egypt as we would expect, but in Northern Chile. This documentary reveals the Egyptians were not the first to practice mummification.

79. Pearl Islands: The Story of Bahrain's Natural Gems

December 31, 2008

Since 4000 BC the pearl has been revered as a treasure. As man's quest for the gem escalated, the islands of Bahrain became known as the source of the world's best pearls. Discover the history of Bahrain's pearl divers, and how their traditions live on.

78. Hoax or History: The Michigan Relics

March 3, 2013

During the late 1800s, a multitude of strange artifacts were unearthed in Michigan. Written in ancient scripts from around the world, they told of a civilization predating Columbus. Are these relics a lost piece of history, or part of an elaborate hoax?

77. JFK's Women: The Scandals Revealed

December 12, 2006

John F. Kennedy was the most charismatic president of the 20th century, but he was also a reckless sexual adventurer. At least five of his conquests posed a potential threat to national security. Discover the true story behind Kennedy's women.

75. Burj Khalifa: Dubai's Vertical City

October 6, 2011

Immerse yourself in the world of the rich and famous and follow the owner and workers who call this super tower home. With unprecedented access, get a glimpse of what it is like to live, work, and play in the World's Tallest Tower.

74. Diana vs. The Queen

October 3, 2013

This revealing documentary charts the two women's relationship from its very beginnings, through the royal wedding to Diana's emergence as a global superstar. The story ends in the final showdown of Diana's funeral.

73. The Boarding School Bomber

November 21, 2011

Three years after the 7/7 attacks on London, Bristol became the intended target of another terrorist attack. However, the young man planning it was no typical terrorist. Uncover what drove Andrew Ibrahim to become a would-be terrorist.

72. Samurai Bow

September 30, 2013

The Japanese bow, or Yumi, has remained virtually unchanged for almost 500 years and is considered a work of art. Steeped in tradition and treated with the utmost respect, it was the Samurai's deadly killing machine.

71. The Legends of Santa

September 26, 2013

Santa's image is almost universally recognizable, yet the jolly old soul, with his bag of gifts, steering his reindeer and sliding down chimneys is a relatively modern image. This festive documentary shows how today's Santa is a fusion of cultures and tra

70. I.M. Pei: Learning from the Light

September 25, 2013

Well into his 90s, Master Architect I.M. Pei is still striving to perfect his craft. He embarks on a journey of discovery to build the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, Qatar. See techniques never attempted until now.

69. Royal Wreck of Gold

August 26, 2013

When the steam clipper "The Royal Charter" was wrecked off the British coast, it took an unbelievable 460 passengers and 80 million Australian dollars with it. Now, for the first time, unearth the secrets of The Royal Charter.

68. Tracing Che

August 18, 2013

Ernesto 'Che' Guevara de la Serna represents one of the most enduring images of a political leader. His legendary character has been the inspiration for millions of people over the last fifty years. Follow in his footsteps.

67. Space Hero: China's First Man in Space

August 14, 2013

China's ambitious manned space program was launched in 1992. Only two nations, the Soviet Union and the United States, had successfully launched a man into space. China was determined to be the third.

66. Pocahontas & Captain John Smith: Love and Survival in the New World

November 7, 2008

This romantic tale is an American legend. But was it really a love story or the figment of a vivid imagination?

65. Jade Hunters of China

July 30, 2013

High in the mountains of China men gamble with their money, and their lives. The prize is some of the finest jade on earth, but winning it requires many sacrifices. Life is not easy for these men, who dedicate their life to excavating this rare stone.

64. Speeches That Changed the World

October 21, 2010

This collection of classic speeches contains inspiring hymns to freedom and the noblest aspects of human endeavor. But there is another side to oratory, and we are also shown some of the darkest and most despicable speeches delivered in modern times.

63. Vampire Skeletons

September 13, 2011

A new archaeological find reveals a disturbing truth behind the legend of the vampire. Go back hundreds to thousands of years before the creation of our first vampire, Dracula, and look into the darkest depths of humanity's earliest fears of the undead.

62. Arctic Manhunt

May 21, 2009

In 1931, a stranger appeared out of nowhere in the Canadian Arctic. Months later, the North's biggest manhunt was launched to find the elusive murderer and thief. The fugitive's unknown identity died with him, never to be discovered - until now.

61. The Pilgrims: Journey Into the Unknown

July 4, 2013

For many Americans, the journey of the Mayflower symbolizes the birth of their nation. But what more is there to the story? How did the pilgrims' persecuted religious community survive against all odds on their journey into the unknown?

60. Search for the Lost Treasure of Afghanistan

July 2, 2013

It is the greatest "˜lost treasure' in history: a mountain of gold and jewels reputed to be worth over $530 billion. Now, Tahir Shah is taking up the gauntlet to find the treasure of his ancestor - Ahmad Shah, the first king of Afghanistan.

58. The Year Without Summer

June 27, 2013

Almost two hundred years ago, Mount Tambora in Eastern Indonesia unleashed the most deadly eruption in history, wiping out at least 117,000 people. However, the death toll continued to rise as it triggered worldwide climate change.

57. Treasure and Death: Secrets of a Moche Tomb

June 26, 2013

Tombs belonging to one of America's most intriguing ancient civilizations, the Moche, not only reveal human remains from more than two thousand years ago, they also hold numerous clues to many unsolved mysteries.

56. Titanic: The Band Played On

June 23, 2013

As the mighty Titanic sunk into the sea, the ship's musicians continued to create beautiful music. Who were these men, and why did they continue to play when death was imminent?

54. Royals at War

June 16, 2013

Royals At War takes an in-depth look at the involvement of members of the Royal family between 1939-1945, a sometimes forgotten part of the story of World War II.

53. Robberies of the Century

June 5, 2013

They used disguises, cunning and bravado. Some traveled through foreign lands, leading top detectives on a wild pursuit around the world. Some got away with millions, others captured within days.

52. Titanic Revealed

February 15, 2005

For decades the wreck of the Titanic remained hidden, until Dr. Robert Ballard did the impossible. Uncover the true story of how the Titanic was discovered, and follow Ballard as he returns to the wreck site for the first time in twenty years.

51. Mumbai Megaflood

May 28, 2007

How was the world's sixth largest city brought to a grinding halt by the forces of nature? Relive the massive flood that toppled Mumbai, India, and forced all its systems shut down as millions of people came under siege by freak weather.

50. Silkair 185: Pilot Suicide?

April 26, 2006

The crash of Silkair 185 was a mystery to the aviation community: one minute the plane is fine, the next, it's diving with no hope of stabilization. What was behind this tragedy? Was it a mechanical failure, or the agenda of a suicidal pilot?

49. Mega Mosque

May 17, 2013

Constructed over twelve years, Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates. Not only in sheer size, but also in elegant beauty, this is a mega structure that's as artistic as it is massive.

48. Head On Air Crash

May 15, 2013

On November 12, 1996 two planes collided head on at 14,000 feet. There were no survivors. Using newspaper reports, official documents, and eyewitness accounts, Head On Air Crash pieces together the events of that fateful day.

47. Hidden Genders

March 18, 2004

The world is often thought to be made up of just males and females -or is it? Explore how different cultures and religion perceive individuals who are "neither male nor female", and how those individuals have assimilated to their places in society.

46. The Tsunami Line

May 13, 2013

The tsunami that devastated Sri Lanka's coast caused the worst train disaster in world history. But rather than splinter along with their rail system, the Sri Lankans united to rebuild the Southern Railway line. Follow the ongoing recovery effort.

45. Asia's Titanic

November 3, 2009

In 1987, the passenger ship Dona Paz collided with an oil tanker off Mindoro Island in the Philippines. It was the world's worst peacetime maritime disaster since the Titanic. Yet the truth regarding the crash has been hidden, until now.

44. China's Ghost Army

May 5, 2013

Since being unearthed in 1974, experts have attempted to resolve an enigma about one of archaeology's greatest finds. Now, with the help of 21st century technology, the once mighty army with its life size warriors rises from the dust of two millennia.

43. Mendelssohn, The Nazis and Me

April 10, 2013

This film by Felix Mendelssohn's descendant tells the extraordinary story of what happened, generations after Mendelssohn's life, to his family and music when the Nazis remembered the Jewish roots of Germany's most celebrated composer.

41. Love Around the World

April 8, 2013

The search for love may involve ancient traditions, or cutting edge correspondence. Meet romantic hopefuls from Alaska and Australia, remote Papua New Guinea and the heart of London, as they hunt for their soul mates in the modern world.

40. The Real History of England

September 20, 2004

The Anglo-Saxon settlement of England marked a new age for Britain. But with new archeological evidence, the very identity of the Anglo-Saxons has come into question. Were they really invaders, or were they a part of British culture all along?

39. Pilate: The Man Who Killed Christ

March 19, 2005

Throughout history, Pontius Pilate has been portrayed as a weak ruler-the man who allowed Jesus Christ to be crucified at the demand of the Jews. But this documentary portrays a very different Pilate, one who had his own motives for allowing Jesus' fate.

38. Fire and Ice

January 31, 2006

This award-winning documentary tells the story of the Soviet Union's invasion of Finland. Vastly outnumbered and outgunned, Finland's defenders clung to what hope they could find. Their stoic refusal to surrender changed the course of World War II.

37. Promises and Betrayals

February 2, 2013

This is a story of how deception and conflicting promises ignited a legacy of bloodshed in Middle East. Avi Shlaim, Professor of International Relations at Oxford University, calls it 'one of the best documentaries on the Middle East I have ever seen'.

36. Mao's Great Famine

February 14, 2012

Based on testimony by survivors, rare footage, and interviews with leading historians, this film strips away the secrecy surrounding the tragic Chinese famine that killed millions, and exposes the lie which continues even today as to the true human cost.

35. Hitler's Women

January 23, 2013

Women were among the strongest pillars of Hitlerism. While some historians underline the complicity between women and the government, others present them as victims of the Nazis. This film sheds light on the complex relations between Hitler and women.

34. Secret Russian Sub: Mission Invisible

January 20, 2013

Since the Cold War, only glimpses of the largest killing machine on Earth have ever been seen. Until now. In a striking insider film, go onboard the pride of the Russian Northern Fleet: a Typhoon-class submarine.

33. The Sacred Animals of the Pharaohs

January 21, 2013

The animals of the Pharaohs were worshiped as sacred and immortalized in the stunning Egyptian artwork. Explore this ancient world through the eyes of its animals, including crocodiles, hippos, various birds, and monkeys.

32. Mystery of the Black Mummy

January 13, 2013

Five thousand four hundred years ago, a two-year-old black boy had been buried under a rock shelter. Before his unearthing, everyone had thought the Egyptians were the inventors of mummification. If not them, who?

31. Sea Soldiers

January 7, 2013

During the Cold War both America and Russia developed a top-secret ultra weapon: an undersea fighting force of sea lions, pilot whales, and dolphins. For thirty years, the two nations tried to transform these marine mammals into professional killers.

30. Halloween: Feast of the Dying Sun

December 25, 2012

We delve into the ancient Celtic origins and the dark fun of Halloween with an eerie journey back in time. Experience the ancient beliefs and practices that are often misconstrued in today's world.

29. Prince Charles' Other Mistress

December 22, 2012

When Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles were married in 2005, it seemed a happy ending to a well-loved story. But one part was missing. With never before seen interviews, experience the untold story of Dale Tryon, Prince Charles' Other Mistress.

27. Mammoth Hunters

December 18, 2012

Since the international ban on elephant hunting, Russia has cornered the ivory market. But this ivory comes from mammoth skeletons. Follow an expedition to a remote area of Siberia, and go inside the new business of "the white gold of the tundra".

26. The Princess and the Gangster

December 12, 2012

He was one of Britain's most notorious gangsters. She was a princess, at one time second in line to the British throne. Together, they would create one of the biggest scandals in royal history, one that threatened to bring down the very monarchy itself.

25. The Diana Conspiracy

December 10, 2012

With access to new documents from the Paris crash investigation and exclusive, never before seen interviews, this film examines the conspiracies surrounding Princess Diana's death, how they came to be, and why people believe in them so fervently.

24. The Shroud of Christ

December 3, 2012

In 2002, the world's most famous religious relic underwent a secret restoration. Now we'll turn back the clock, embarking on a journey of discovery to unravel one of the world's most perplexing mysteries: Is the Shroud of Turin real, or an elaborate hoax?

23. Tale of the Australian Jesse James

July 8, 2009

Join Tony Robinson in a unique, never to be repeated archaeological excavation of the site of the infamous Australian Outlaw Ned Kelly's last stand. Tony will uncover new revelations as he investigates one of Australia's most iconic historical events.

22. The Queen's Coronation

December 1, 2008

The Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II was a glittering triumph for the House of Windsor. But behind the scenes the unholiest of rows; a clash between tradition and modernization that would decide the future of Britain's royal family.

21. Breaking the Sound Barrier

August 24, 2008

The international race for supersonic flight was won by the Americans in 1947. Designers, engineers and survivors of an elite group of pilots who risked life and limb in testing the prototype tell their story.

20. The Dambusters of WW2, Part 3: Dangerous Mission

August 6, 2011

It was one of the most influential achievements of World War II, a strike at the heart of the German military. Using only the equipment and the knowledge available of the time, today's British pilots will attempt to recreate the feat. (Pt 3)

19. The Dambusters of WW2, Part 2: Preparing for the Raid

August 7, 2011

17. Decoded: Dan Brown's Lost Symbol

December 25, 2009

In this roller coaster of a film, Tony Robinson's hopes for hidden truths are constantly raised and dashed as he investigates the Masonic influence on past and present, and delves into the truth of their rituals and secrets.

16. Mummies of the Taklamakan

October 22, 2004

For ten years, a Franco-Chinese team has been excavating the Taklamakan desert. This quest takes us across the oases of the ancient Silk Road, a commercial caravan route along which Buddhism spread to China in the 1st century A.D.

15. Vesuvius: Deadly Fury

May 14, 2003

On the 24th August 79 AD, the eruption of Vesuvius eradicated the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Using modern science, the mysteries of the devastation are revealed.

14. Beasts of the Roman Games

July 17, 2009

The untold story of the Roman animal trade and the arena games. For over seven hundred years, the Romans trapped, transported and slaughtered wild and exotic animals in the Empire's arenas of death.

13. The Vanishing Tattoo

September 21, 2003

A grueling journey deep into the jungle of Borneo takes two men in search of the last remaining traditional tattoo artists. Pushing inland along the 'River of Death', they document ancient practices and try to keep the traditional methods alive.

12. Story of the Lost Nuke

November 21, 2008

In February 1950, engine failure forces a US bomber to crash land. Its cargo: a MK IV nuclear bomb. Despite the largest search mission in US Air Force history, the nuclear weapon remained lost in the Pacific Ocean... until now.

11. The Khufu Pyramid Revealed

December 27, 2008

The Great Pyramids are the only wonder of the ancient world that still stands today, the greatest of which is the pyramid of Khufu. Many theories have been offered to explain its construction, but none as convincing or unique as this one.

10. Assault and Rescue: the Entebbe Raid

April 9, 2012

The daring Israeli raid on Entebbe described in first-person accounts by the heroes who pulled off this impossible mission. Gripping re-enactments take you inside the assault that brought nearly all of the highjacked Air France hostages to safety.

9. Missing in Action: A Daughter's Search for Her MIA Father

January 13, 2012

The emotional story of Deborah Robertson Bardsley's search for her father, John Robertson, an airforce pilot shot down in Vietnam. Her story reminds us of the 1678 servicemen still missing, and of the struggle of their families to get a full accounting.

8. Quest for the Lost Pharaoh

November 12, 2012

Unraveling the tale of a priest and his family by following the clues left to us by the ancients, Vassil Dobrev will attempt to reconstruct the past in his quest for the lost pharaoh. State of the art CGI brings the ancient necropolis to life.

8. Hitler's Warriors: Paulus the Defector

December 31, 2011

Friedrich Paulus rose to the rank of field marshal in the German army in World War II, and is best known for commanding the disastrous Nazi assault on Stalingrad. Then, when he was captured, he ended up defecting to the Soviets.

7. Vampire Island

August 10, 2010

A crack team of archaeologists and forensic scientists have uncovered hard evidence for the existence of Vampires and the location of mass burial site for the un-dead.

7. The Kennedy Mystique

April 21, 2004

In just under a thousand days in office, the Kennedys used photography and television to charm the world and change politics forever. Never-before seen footage from a lost archive reveals how the Kennedys won the hearts of millions.

7. Hitler's Warriors: Canaris the Spy

December 30, 2011

Wilhelm Franz Canaris was a German admiral and head of the German military intelligence service from 1935 to 1944. He was also a member of the German Resistance. Posing as a trusted man, he worked to overthrow Hitler's regime.

6. Spellbound: Crimes of the Mind

April 30, 2010

Sometimes just a tap on the shoulder is enough to put you under a stranger's control. The mystery of mind manipulation, or "pukau" has long since been an enigma. Unravel the secrets behind these crimes of the mind.

6. Sea Spies

December 10, 2003

During the cold war, submarine technology was ever increasing. However, the technology was not aimed at who could carry the most firepower, it was a game of who could be the most silent and undetectable.

6. Hitler's Warriors: Rommel the Desert Fox

December 29, 2011

Erwin Rommel, the Desert Fox, was known as a skilled commander of desert warfare. However, late in the war, Rommel was linked to the conspiracy to kill Adolf Hitler. In return for assurances his family would be spared, Rommel agreed to commit suicide.

5. Westall '66: A Suburban UFO Mystery

June 4, 2010

In 1966, in the Australian suburb of Westall, hundreds of students, teachers, and local residents saw the unimaginable: a UFO. Silenced by authorities at the time, now they revisit the extraordinary experience as a tenacious sleuth searches for answers.

5. Cold War Spies Behind Enemy Lines

November 7, 2011

The end of the Second World War marked the beginning of the Cold War. The Iron Curtain became impenetrable, so western intelligence agencies sent spies behind enemy lines to find out what they could about the Soviet armed forces.

4. Charles Manson: The Man Who Killed The 60s

June 25, 1995

The events of the night of August 9th, 1969 changed the face of the '60s. The brutal murders of starlet Sharon Tate and her friends shocked the world, and when the Manson Family murderers were found, flower-power culture came under the spotlight.

4. Hitler's Warriors: Manstein the Strategist

October 11, 2011

Erich von Manstein was one of the most prominent commanders of Germany's World War II armed forces. As one of Hitler's best military strategists, he was responsible for planning and initiating the invasion of France.

3. Russian Submarine Disaster

September 21, 2011

The sinking of the submarine Kursk was one of the worst accidents ever in the history of the Russian navy. Not one of the crew members survived the inferno. In the aftermath, engineers struggled to salvaging the wreck in the rough Barents Sea.

2. Secret Sub Attack On Pearl Harbor

August 11, 2011

More than 60 years after the attack on Pearl Harbor, scientists make a startling discovery. 366 meters below the surface, they find a Midget, a Japanese navy submarine that was part of the Japanese plan to destroy Pearl Harbor.

1. Prisoners Of War Betrayed

July 18, 2011

The fate of prisoners of war and missing in action is one of the darkest chapters of the Cold War. Tens of thousands of American soldiers European survivors were sent to unknown destinations during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

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