What the Ancients Knew

Season 1

This series journeys into the technological past that shaped our world. Travel back in time to understand the motivations behind early solutions and inventions. Much of the science and technology we consider to be "modern" was created by civilizations long ago.

Where to Watch What the Ancients Knew • Season 1

6 Episodes

The Chinese
E1
The ChineseThe discoveries made by Chinese explorers that placed the nation at the forefront of technological advancement
The Egyptians
E2
The EgyptiansThe ancient Egyptian people's obsession with making preparations for the afterlife, which led to the growth of an entire industry devoted to death
The Greeks
E3
The GreeksAn insight into the technology and innovations developed in ancient Greece - considered to be the first civilisation - and how their discoveries are still used in modern times.
Indians
E4
IndiansExamining the cultural and technological contributions of the 700,000-year-old civilisation of ancient India - particularly their advanced knowledge of astronomy
Japanese
E5
JapaneseThe technological innovations employed in modern Japan whose roots can be traced back to ancient times
The Romans
E6
The RomansHow the Romans' desire to rule over a unified and peaceful military empire influenced their early inventions