Absolute History

Historians Dan Jones and Suzannah Lipscomb team up with engineer Rob Bell to tell the story of the Great Fire of London as it happened in real-time. Over 350 years after the fact, `The Great Fire' explores exactly what went down, hour by hour, street by street as the fire spread and destroyed almost every building within London's city walls. From the spark that set everything off at a bakers near Pudding Lane, to the warehouses by the Thames, to the blazing inferno that engulfed the entire city, the hosts present both old and new evidence to document the tragedy that caused £37 billion worth of property damage.

In this landmark living history series, a late 1800s Victorian arts and crafts commune in the Welsh hills has been painstakingly brought back to life as a group of 21st-century crafters move in to experience the highs and lows of living and working together as a creative commune. Anita Rani is joined by internationally renowned potter Keith Brymer Jones and arts and crafts expert and dealer Patch Rogers as the six crafters are faced with the challenge of breathing life back into the Victorian parlour.

A mystery is emerging out the Yukon ice: human hunting tools hidden for as long as 9,000 years have started to melt out. And each new find is another piece to the puzzle of who these people were.

The story of the engineers who worked tirelessly to keep the electric power running as the Titanic sank. Their selfless actions kept the lights on and the electric lifeboat winches operational to facilitate the survival of others.

The romantic tale of the Native American teenager, Pocahontas, and John Smith is an American legend. Was it really a love story or the figment of a vivid imagination? The truth of Pocahontas' life is subject to the interpretation of both the oral and written accounts, which contradict one another. She lives on through her own people, who are still here today, and through the descendants of her two sons.

A group of modern shopkeepers and their families are on the journey of a lifetime - they're taking over empty shops in a neglected market square in Shepton Mallet to see if they can turn back time for the British High Street. They'll live and trade through six key eras of history and in this episode they begin their journey in the 1870s when the high street was born. The shopkeepers make up the key trades; there's the butcher, the baker, the candlestick maker and the grocer. Overseeing it all is an expert Chamber of Commerce, headed up by greengrocer and Masterchef judge Gregg Wallace.

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 Near Eastern culture living in North America before the arrival of Columbus. The Michigan Relics are considered to be one of the most elaborate and extensive pseudoarchaeological hoaxes ever perpetrated in American history.

Who stole the famous Ghent Altarpiece, and who recovered it? And who is restoring it? What is Prinsenhof, and why is it so pretty? Where did the famous Ghent Dragonfly in from? Why is Ghent so famous for its lace? Why is St. Peters Abbey so important to Ghent history?

For many Americans, the journey of the Mayflower in 1620 symbolizes the birth of their nation. Led by William Bradford, the Pilgrim Fathers traversed the Atlantic to Plymouth, Massachusetts, in search of religious freedom. To this day, the Pilgrim Fathers are a glorified symbol of American virtue and Thanksgiving. In this film, we delve into the significance of their story for America and wider religious history, as well as their conflict and eventual treaty with the Native Americans.

Why is Dublin known worldwide for its pubs? Where did traditional Irish music come from? Why are there always flowers decorating a pub? What does the word "pub" mean? What is a "snug?" A Brian Boru harp? And how did a fella named Arthur Guinness become so important?

Rome would never have made it into the history books without the backing of its huge military apparatus. The life and the incredible luxury the ancient city of over a million inhabitants enjoyed was only made possible through the exploitation of its colonies, a course of action that never would have been possible without its troops.

Bruges, Belgium looks like medieval fairytale. Who were the Flemish Masters, and how did they leave their mark on art history? Who stole Michelangelo's Madonna of Bruges? And who rescued her? Why does Bruges look the same as it did in the Middle Ages? What is a Beguinage? And 'Blind Donkey Alley'? And why are all the colorful buildings surrounding the Markt the same width?

Carthage came into being as a Phoenician trading base, its strategically favorable location eventually allowing it to develop into a major center of trade and seafaring. Carthage, Rome's fierce adversary, is the gateway to the treasures of Africa.

We get curious about the stunning natural landscape of Wales. We visit an Iron Age settlement-turned-castle, Brecon Beacons National Park, Pembrokeshire National Park, the smallest city in Britain, Wales' Town of Book), a Victorian seaside resort, and lots and lots of curious castles.

Athens gave the world its modern political system - the birth of "democracy" is a long and complicated yet utterly galvanizing process. Even the Gods have a say in worldly doings. The city beneath the Acropolis becomes the very cradle of western culture.

In Victorian England, the Workhouse formed the basis of society. The poor and destitute entered Workhouses to receive free health care and food. But in a society that viewed poverty as a crime, these workhouses were never meant to comfort. It was a means to punish the destitute and encourage future independence. In this two-part documentary, several UK celebrities explore how their ancestors survived the difficult environment of the Workhouse and discover some unexpected family secrets that shock and inspire them in turn.

How did Hong Kong get its name? What is so junky about a junk boat? We get curious about the Big Buddha, the Po Lin Monastery, and the Wisdom Path on Lantau Island. Then, we head to the Kung Wo Tofu Factory to learn a centuries-old tofu-making technique. Christine also takes you inside a Tin Hau Temple, the Man Mo Temple, and a traditional Qipao dress-making shop.

Alexandria was a royal Greek city in the land of the Pharaohs. Along the sandy banks of the Nile delta on the African Mediterranean coast, the most powerful metropolis of its time rose from virtually nothing. The Hellenistic culture mingled with the legacy of the Pharaohs and bore the fruits of a glorious new heritage.

How did Manchester kick-start 'Railway Mania' in the Industrial Age? What is Manchester's Water Palace? What is so curious about the architecture of the John Rylands and Chetham's Libraries? Why is a bee the symbol of Manchester? Which pub owner shooed her patrons out with a broom? Why is the National Football Museum in Manchester?

Why Did The Roman Catholic Church Prosecute Galileo? | Face The World examines the specific people, events and evidence presented in this documentary. The invention of maps is a fascinating chapter in human history beginning 5,000 years ago. People throughout history and across the globe all attempted to create a picture of our world. How do human beings know what lies beyond the sea? Did Marco Polo have an atlas to show him the route to China? Did the Romans record the borders of their vast empire on maps? For thousands of years, unknown distant lands guarded their secrets and yet, they were described in travel books. The Face of The World has fascinated people of every age and culture.

Why does Cardiff have so many Victorian and Georgian arcades? What is a bara brith? Why is there a giant wall in the middle of Cardiff? Who built Cardiff Castle? And Coch Castle? And laverbread? (Seriously, what is it?)

Historians recognize three motives for European exploration into the New World: God, gold, and glory. People throughout history and across continents all attempted to create a picture of our world. How do human beings know what lies beyond the sea? Did Marco Polo have an atlas to show him the route to China? Did the Romans record the borders of their vast empire on maps? For thousands of years, unknown distant lands guarded their secrets and yet, they were described in travel books. The Face of The World has fascinated people of every age and culture.

Before there was Pirates of the Caribbean, there was Treasure Island. Critics hail it as the most famous pirate story in history. Since its publication over a century ago, Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island popularized the most potent symbols of pirate lore: swashbuckling seamen, uncharted tropical islands, and dog-eared treasure maps marked with an 'X'. And now, it appears that the novel may have been inspired by a real treasure - on an island no one has ever searched - until now. The Real Treasure Island follows Alex Campus as he travels to exotic locales to unlock the true story behind a literary masterpiece. From the foggy Scottish Highlands to the sun-kissed islands of the South Pacific, Campus follows a treasure trail of clues -each one triggering dramatic recreations that tell the true story behind Stevenson's tale.

How Did Ancient People Travel Without Maps? examines the specific people, events and evidence presented in this documentary. The invention of maps is a fascinating chapter in human history beginning 5,000 years ago. People throughout history and across the globe all attempted to create a picture of our world. How do human beings know what lies beyond the sea? Did Marco Polo have an atlas to show him the route to China? Did the Romans record the borders of their vast empire on maps? For thousands of years, unknown distant lands guarded their secrets and yet, they were described in travel books. The Face of The World has fascinated people of every age and culture.

Why is La Grande-Place so gilded? How did Brussels' chocolate legacy begin? Where can you walk through the pages of a comic book? How did Flanders become such a source of Master artists?

"Women Outward Bound" is a documentary about how 1 month, 50 years ago, taught 24 girls they could do more than they ever thought possible. Fifty years ago, girls were not allowed to participate in the rigorous U.S outward-bound wilderness school until 24 women broke that barrier. Find out how one month of surviving in the woods changed them... and history.. forever.

Secrets from the Clink follows Len Goodman, Johnny Vegas, Michelle Collins, Mariella Frostrup, and Daisy McAndrew as they find out about the crimes their ancestors committed dating back to the Victorian Era and the punishments they received for the crimes.

England's Great West Way follows the ancient path from London to Bristol. We take the train & get curious at stops along the way: Stonehenge, Bath's masonic architecture, the Roman Baths, the S.S. Great Britain, sample some curious pub pies, learn some cockney rhyming slang, and visit some charming villages too.

Comedian Johnny Vegas, entertainer Len Goodman and broadcaster Mariella Frostrup go on an emotional journey to discover how their ancestors coped with serving time in Victorian prisons.

Why did the English choose Jamestown, Yorktown and Williamsburg, Virginia as their early American settlements? Why did King William III and Queen Mary II establish a university here? What was life like for the colonists here? What crazy concoctions are to be found in a colonial apothecary?

This vibrant UNESCO World Heritage site has a remarkable history. Guanajuato City in Mexico has been inhabited for thousands of years. Translating to the "Frog Hills", this mineral-rich valley has been home to the Otomi, the Aztecs, and the Spanish.

This documentary investigates the story behind HM Prison Holloway, from its beginnings 165 years ago. It recounts the criminal history of its most infamous and prolific female inmates.

San Miguel De Allende is one of the most beautiful and unique places in Mexico. How did this UNESCO heritage city get such a curious name? Why are there so many grand mansions in such a small town? Why is there a pink Gothic church?

From the Sound of Music to Silent Night to the Sonatas of Mozart, it's time to get curious about Salzburg! Why is there a giant church complex, the DomQuartier, in this tiny Alpine town? And why is there an equally giant medieval fortress high above it? Who lived in Mirabell Palace? And Hellbrun Palace?

In the mountains of China's Sichuan Province is the sight of hundreds of ancient wooden coffins hanging precariously from a cliff face. Some experts believe the dead were placed there thousands of years ago to be within reach of the gods, while others say it was to keep them away from wild animals. This film chronicles an effort by scientists to understand and preserve these mysterious coffins.

This beautiful region of England is full of picture-perfect rolling hills, quaint stone cottages, sprawling country estates, and that distinct Yorkshire dialect. Why are country estates named Castles and Abbeys? What is The Shambles, and how did it get its name? Why is one of the largest medieval Gothic cathedrals in Europe in the small town of York?

After nearly 500 years, French is still the official language of this North American city. How has this UNESCO World Heritage Site retained its 'Frenchness' after all this time? Why does the Château Frontenac hotel look like a French castle, and what does it have to do with the Canadian railway? What's so curious about Rue Saint-Jean, Place Royal, and Petit-Champlain?

Why did the Scottish kings live in Edinburgh, and why don't we have Scottish kings anymore? Why was Edinburgh Castle built high upon Castle Rock? What's the connection between Edinburgh and Harry Potter? And where are the real-life inspirations for Harry Potter locations? What is so royal about Edinburgh's Royal Mile? Who is Arthur, and why does he get his own Seat?

The Habsburgs were the hereditary rulers of the Holy Roman Empire. Their kingdom was the largest realm in Renaissance Europe. How did they shape Europe? Where did Mozart perform as a 6-year-old prodigy? When and why did Austria shrink to a tenth of its size?

How did Dublin get its name? And what do Vikings have to do with it? Who was Maewyn Succat, and why is he celebrated with green beer? How did the harp become a symbol of Ireland? What is the curious history of the Book of Kells?

In this episode, we explore the curious world of Royal Warrants, a special designation given only to the best shops and services, literally fit for a king or queen. We also visit the atelier of one of Princess Diana's gown designers. From the royal dressmakers to tiara makers to the royal cheesemonger (yes, there is such a thing); we take you across London, on a truly royal shopping spree.

Queen Victoria named Glasgow the second city of the empire. What made this city so important to the industrial revolution? Who is buried under Glasgow Cathedral and why? Who is Saint Mungo, and why is he so big? Why does Glasgow City Chambers look like a palace? How did this seaport town become a center for the Scottish Enlightenment? And how did the creativity of one man, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, leave a permanent mark on this city?

What European Christmas Markets have to do with the Holy Roman Empire; why are Christmas Markets mostly in German-speaking countries; history of the Advent wreath, Silent Night and the character named Krampus.

This is the remarkable human history of eight beautiful Islands found off the coast of California. Known as the Galapagos of North America, the Channel Islands can be seen from the mainland, yet few people know their rich and important history. These are the stories of the first European settlements to arrive on the island, the settlers who went in search of the west and didn't stop until they reached the edge.

This is the remarkable human history of eight beautiful Islands found off the coast of California. Known as the Galapagos of North America, the Channel Islands can be seen from the mainland, yet few people know their rich and important history. We will learn of the First People to make the Channel Islands their home. Including the Arlington Man - the oldest human remains discovered in North America. We will learn of The Voyage of Cabrillo - aka The 'discovery' of the Channel Islands in 1542. Finally, The Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island - A native woman who survived alone for 18 years.

In July of 1920, all eyes were on the Tennessee capital as Anti and Pro-suffragists each fought for their vision of a socially evolving the United States. One more state was needed to ratify the proposed amendment, and that duty rested solely on the shoulders of Tennessee. It passed by one swing vote, cast by a 24-year-old legislator, Harry Burn, whose mother had urged him to "Do the right thing".

Stephen Fry takes a look at the story of Johannes Gutenberg, inventor of the world's first printing press in the 15th century. Beginning with religious works and textbooks, soon presses were churning out all manner of texts from Reformation pamphlets to romantic novels. The number of books greatly increased, their cost diminished and so more people read than ever before.

At 95, Queen Elizabeth II represented the glory of an age gone by. At 27, the striking young monarch seemed to be ushering in a new Elizabethan era that she vowed would last a lifetime. But, the following 6 decades have been filled with pomp, pageantry, melodrama, and tragedy. The much-loved Queen will be a hard act to follow. But an increasingly republican society has grown to question the elitist establishment.