War Machines

Whether being revered or reviled, no one can deny the invention of the firearm has forever changed the way wars are fought. From humble beginnings to a weapon that has built Empires and slaughtered millions, the story of the gun and how it has evolved throughout the centuries is long. But, of all the things guns have been throughout the ages, they have never been anything less than influential.

The history of artillery highlights in no uncertain terms how destructive human innovation can be, from the first grenade to a cannon that fires atomic shells and more. This episode showcases both big and small artillery and the impact they have had on warfare.

The ability to move swiftly and strategically across the battlefield has been a deciding factor in warfare since the dawn of man. The methods by which we move have evolved through the ages, from horses to Humvees to some of the most versatile vehicles ever built. This episode showcases that journey by highlighting some of the most influential movers to ever take to the battlefield.

Wooden hulls were encased in iron, sails replaced by some of the most powerful engines ever built, and cannons outgunned by missiles capable of toppling empires. From the most deadly submarines ever seen to the infamous destroyers of the Second World War, this episode explores what it takes to rule the waves.

When mankind took to the skies, we took the tools of war with us. Within a century, these weapons evolved from the legendary dogfighters of World War One to supersonic jets. This episode is the story of that evolution and the desire to fly higher, move faster, and kill, all from within the cockpit.

Be they robotic, chemical, atomic, or nuclear, these are the ultimate killing devices showcased throughout the last century in the final episode of the series. From chemicals so horrific their use in war today is banned, to the most destructive weapons ever employed in combat, and those that thankfully have not. This episode truly shows that another world war would lead to man's extinction.