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Empire Games

The Greeks

Episode 2 | The History Channel | June 12, 2018

Ancient history

History

Classification: Mature

When Alexander the Great lay on his deathbed his companions asked to whom he wished to leave his kingdom. "To the strongest," was his reply. The passing of the great conqueror plunged the Greek Empire into 40 years of war as kings, generals and henchmen vied for ultimate power.

Overview

When Alexander the Great lay on his deathbed his companions asked to whom he wished to leave his kingdom. "To the strongest," was his reply. The passing of the great conqueror plunged the Greek Empire into 40 years of war as kings, generals and henchmen vied for ultimate power.

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For years gladiators have been legendary figures of the Ancient World; the stuff of Hollywood blockbusters like Spartacus, or Gladiator. But our knowledge has been based largely on speculation - until now. Timewatch have secured exclusive access to the biggest archaeological gladiator research project of all time. As it approaches its conclusion, Gladiator CSI reveals the secrets of how gladiators lived, fought and died, not from speculation but from forensic science. In the 1990s a survey for the ancient course of the Holy Procession Path between the temple of Artemis (one of the seven Wonders of the World) and the city of Ephesus in Turkey came upon an unexpected find: a mass burial site. But most of the cadavers did not bear the signs of death from natural causes. Instead, they seem to have met a violent end. In 2002 two forensic anthropologists went to investigate: this was a gladiator graveyard. Although the corpses of gladiators had been found before, they tended to be isolated examples. In this graveyard, no less than 67 were buried. The amount of data was unprecedented. Employing two of the world's leading forensics anthropologists as our two crime scene investigators, this is the story of their investigation. Their research makes ground-breaking conclusions probing popular myths about gladiators: Is the currently fashionable thesis that although gladiators fought vicious contests, they rarely battled to the death, really true? Were the losers of gladiatorial contests really dispatched in the arena by the turning of the emperor's thumb? Were gladiators treated as no more than animals, with no provision for their health or well-being? Spanning two centuries, our 67 corpses reveal great technological changes in fighting equipment and wounds from weapons that were hitherto thought only to be the stuff of myth (like the cubic fore dent).

Gladiator Graveyard

Years 11-12 Ancient history, History

For years gladiators have been legendary figures of the Ancient World; the stuff of Hollywood blockbusters like Spartacus, or Gladiator. But our knowledge has been based largely on speculation - until now. Timewatch have secured exclusive access to the biggest archaeological gladiator research project of all time. As it approaches its conclusion, Gladiator CSI reveals the secrets of how gladiators lived, fought and died, not from speculation but from forensic science. In the 1990s a survey for the ancient course of the Holy Procession Path between the temple of Artemis (one of the seven Wonders of the World) and the city of Ephesus in Turkey came upon an unexpected find: a mass burial site. But most of the cadavers did not bear the signs of death from natural causes. Instead, they seem to have met a violent end. In 2002 two forensic anthropologists went to investigate: this was a gladiator graveyard. Although the corpses of gladiators had been found before, they tended to be isolated examples. In this graveyard, no less than 67 were buried. The amount of data was unprecedented. Employing two of the world's leading forensics anthropologists as our two crime scene investigators, this is the story of their investigation. Their research makes ground-breaking conclusions probing popular myths about gladiators: Is the currently fashionable thesis that although gladiators fought vicious contests, they rarely battled to the death, really true? Were the losers of gladiatorial contests really dispatched in the arena by the turning of the emperor's thumb? Were gladiators treated as no more than animals, with no provision for their health or well-being? Spanning two centuries, our 67 corpses reveal great technological changes in fighting equipment and wounds from weapons that were hitherto thought only to be the stuff of myth (like the cubic fore dent).

Trade has a civilising effect - promoting wealth, cooperation and trust. Nowhere was this truer in the ancient world than in the Indus Valley - between modern-day India and Pakistan - home to the first civilisation in Asia. Archaeologist Uzma Rizvi reveals this was a civilisation built upon the production and exchange of precious stones and copper-based ornaments. As demand for these goods grew, the trade network expanded and civilisation flourished.

First Civilisations: Trade

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Trade has a civilising effect - promoting wealth, cooperation and trust. Nowhere was this truer in the ancient world than in the Indus Valley - between modern-day India and Pakistan - home to the first civilisation in Asia. Archaeologist Uzma Rizvi reveals this was a civilisation built upon the production and exchange of precious stones and copper-based ornaments. As demand for these goods grew, the trade network expanded and civilisation flourished.

Having lived as mobile foragers for 99 percent of our time on Earth, why did our ancestors stop moving and start settling in villages, towns and cities? The process started in the hills of southern Turkey at a site known as Gobekli Tepe. The impulse to be social brought large numbers of people together for seasonal feasts. The site was so important to them, that they marked it out with huge carved pillars - the world's first monument. But to stay on a permanent basis, they needed a permanent supply of food. Archaeologist Jens Notroff explains that the solution came around 10,000 years ago, when people in this region worked out how to plant, cultivate and harvest wheat. In doing so, they changed the trajectory of human history. Tied to the land, farmers needed to live in one place on a year-round basis, thus the village was born.

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Having lived as mobile foragers for 99 percent of our time on Earth, why did our ancestors stop moving and start settling in villages, towns and cities? The process started in the hills of southern Turkey at a site known as Gobekli Tepe. The impulse to be social brought large numbers of people together for seasonal feasts. The site was so important to them, that they marked it out with huge carved pillars - the world's first monument. But to stay on a permanent basis, they needed a permanent supply of food. Archaeologist Jens Notroff explains that the solution came around 10,000 years ago, when people in this region worked out how to plant, cultivate and harvest wheat. In doing so, they changed the trajectory of human history. Tied to the land, farmers needed to live in one place on a year-round basis, thus the village was born.

Religion has always been the soulmate of civilisation; they are meant for each other. This connection was first made in Ancient Egypt, which is still the longest lasting civilisation in world history. All civilisations since have borrowed something of the blueprint established by the Egyptians. Remarkably, it is possible to trace the birth of organised religion to a specific site known as Nabta Playa in the Egyptian desert. Here, 8000 years ago, herders built stone circles and erected megaliths as a place of worship. Archaeologist and series consultant Jeff Rose believes the site was a prototype church where people tried to understand their place within the ever-changing rhythms of the natural world.

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Religion has always been the soulmate of civilisation; they are meant for each other. This connection was first made in Ancient Egypt, which is still the longest lasting civilisation in world history. All civilisations since have borrowed something of the blueprint established by the Egyptians. Remarkably, it is possible to trace the birth of organised religion to a specific site known as Nabta Playa in the Egyptian desert. Here, 8000 years ago, herders built stone circles and erected megaliths as a place of worship. Archaeologist and series consultant Jeff Rose believes the site was a prototype church where people tried to understand their place within the ever-changing rhythms of the natural world.

Could a remote island chain in Polynesia have been the centre of a thriving civilisation? New archaeological and geological evidence reveal an ancient world of human sacrifice and epic voyages.

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Years 9-10, 11-12 Ancient history, Geography

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How can something as devastating as war help bring about civilisation? Ancient Mesoamerica is the perfect petri dish to examine the process of 'destructive creation'. Evolutionary theorist Peter Turchin regards war as a necessary evil. It brought people together in a common cause while stimulating an arms race of technological progress.

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This series explores the greatest empires in a way that has never been fully investigated. Each episode highlights and exposes the political intrigue, personal vendettas, family mayhem, acts of vengeance and the ever-evolving tension, turmoil and chaos that shaped these civilisations and led to their destruction from within. Rome's Gaelic Wars are remembered as the stepping stone Julius Caesar used to assume absolute power in Rome. But what of the point of view of the many Celtic tribes that rose in opposition to the invader? We'll explore this incredible conflict from a totally new perspective. These were not faceless barbarians but skilled warriors and brilliant politicians. Chief among them was Vercingetorix, the great leader who united them all and met his end in Rome, a human spoil of war paraded through the forum for the glory of Caesar.

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This series explores the greatest empires in a way that has never been fully investigated. Each episode highlights and exposes the political intrigue, personal vendettas, family mayhem, acts of vengeance and the ever-evolving tension, turmoil and chaos that shaped these civilisations and led to their destruction from within. Rome's Gaelic Wars are remembered as the stepping stone Julius Caesar used to assume absolute power in Rome. But what of the point of view of the many Celtic tribes that rose in opposition to the invader? We'll explore this incredible conflict from a totally new perspective. These were not faceless barbarians but skilled warriors and brilliant politicians. Chief among them was Vercingetorix, the great leader who united them all and met his end in Rome, a human spoil of war paraded through the forum for the glory of Caesar.

This series explores the greatest empires in a way that has never been fully investigated. Each episode highlights and exposes the political intrigue, personal vendettas, family mayhem, acts of vengeance and the ever-evolving tension, turmoil and chaos that shaped these civilisations and led to their destruction from within. Born in 624 CE, Wu Zhao became the concubine of Emperor Taizong. Her entry into the palace would begin one of the most dramatic periods in Chinese history. She would ultimately rule as the Empress Wu and expand Chinese military and political control in Central Asia and the Korean peninsula. Court intrigue raged during her reign and she successfully undermined constant attempts to usurp her power. In the end, however, ill health and conspiracy would combine to force her abdication. The former rulers seized control and the second Zhao dynasty began and ended with her.

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This series explores the greatest empires in a way that has never been fully investigated. Each episode highlights and exposes the political intrigue, personal vendettas, family mayhem, acts of vengeance and the ever-evolving tension, turmoil and chaos that shaped these civilisations and led to their destruction from within. Born in 624 CE, Wu Zhao became the concubine of Emperor Taizong. Her entry into the palace would begin one of the most dramatic periods in Chinese history. She would ultimately rule as the Empress Wu and expand Chinese military and political control in Central Asia and the Korean peninsula. Court intrigue raged during her reign and she successfully undermined constant attempts to usurp her power. In the end, however, ill health and conspiracy would combine to force her abdication. The former rulers seized control and the second Zhao dynasty began and ended with her.

An epic series that deciphers the life of Jesus through six extraordinary objects associated with his life and death. We discover fascinating new insights into the historical Jesus, utilising the latest state-of-the-art scientific techniques and archaeological research. We investigate the value and authenticity of six objects which could shed new light on Jesus - the Shroud of Turin, relics venerated as part of the True Cross, the Gospel of Judas, relics believed to be of John the Baptist, the Gospel of Mary Magdalene and the secret brother of Jesus. We are guided by breathtaking dramatic reconstruction and a first-class panel of on-screen contributors. We hear from representatives of the world's best universities including Yale, Harvard, Princeton and Oxford, as they provide historical and theological insight, while the likes of Father James Martin SJ, the Reverend Paul Raushenbush and Erwin MacManus help bring our characters and their emotional journeys to life for our audience.

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This series explores the greatest empires in a way that has never been fully investigated. Each episode highlights and exposes the political intrigue, personal vendettas, family mayhem, acts of vengeance and the ever-evolving tension, turmoil and chaos that shaped these civilisations and led to their destruction from within. Egypt reached the pinnacle of its power in the 14th century BCE, when the pyramids of Giza were already 1000 years old. The pharaoh Akhenaten ushered in a brutal period of religious violence by rejecting the old gods and imposing the worship of Aten. The conflict raged for decades as his wives and children fought for control of the Empire, the most famous casualty being the boy king Tutankhamun.

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This series explores the greatest empires in a way that has never been fully investigated. Each episode highlights and exposes the political intrigue, personal vendettas, family mayhem, acts of vengeance and the ever-evolving tension, turmoil and chaos that shaped these civilisations and led to their destruction from within. Egypt reached the pinnacle of its power in the 14th century BCE, when the pyramids of Giza were already 1000 years old. The pharaoh Akhenaten ushered in a brutal period of religious violence by rejecting the old gods and imposing the worship of Aten. The conflict raged for decades as his wives and children fought for control of the Empire, the most famous casualty being the boy king Tutankhamun.

With only six days to go, the tribe still doesn't have enough food to see them to the end. After Paul's shock departure and with Mike seriously ill, just four remain in camp. Mike is so malnourished, the medic is concerned he could have liver damage. Mel is working harder than ever and is worried she'll be the next one to crack.

10,000 BC

Years 9-10, 11-12 Ancient history, Science

With only six days to go, the tribe still doesn't have enough food to see them to the end. After Paul's shock departure and with Mike seriously ill, just four remain in camp. Mike is so malnourished, the medic is concerned he could have liver damage. Mel is working harder than ever and is worried she'll be the next one to crack.

The tribe have less than two weeks to go. The freezing temperatures and lack of success in hunting means everyone is suffering. Mike is showing signs of malnutrition; Mel thinks they have enough rations for the remaining days, topping up with fish from the lake. Paul persists with hunting, but frustration and homesickness kick in.

10,000 BC

Years 9-10, 11-12 Ancient history, Science

The tribe have less than two weeks to go. The freezing temperatures and lack of success in hunting means everyone is suffering. Mike is showing signs of malnutrition; Mel thinks they have enough rations for the remaining days, topping up with fish from the lake. Paul persists with hunting, but frustration and homesickness kick in.

Explore the engineering and architectural feats that were characteristic of some of the greatest societies the planet has ever seen.

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This series explores the greatest empires in a way that has never been fully investigated. Each episode highlights and exposes the political intrigue, personal vendettas, family mayhem, acts of vengeance and the ever-evolving tension, turmoil and chaos that shaped these civilisations and led to their destruction from within. Rome's first dynasty, founded by Julius Caesar, ruled the Empire for 100 years. From Caesar's murder on the floor of the Senate to the mad emperors Caligula and Nero, and the ruthless nymphomaniac Valeria Messalina, this chapter in the Roman Empire offers enough intrigue, betrayal, perversion and murder for an entire series.

It's mid-November and the tribe are worried whether Mel's plan to ration the food for the remaining two and a half weeks will work. Paul Barnes isn't convinced: he's been busy setting deer traps. Although unsuccessful, he and Mike are exhausted from hours of hunting. Paul becomes more and more desperate in his pursuit of wild game and more and more exhausted. With Paul on the verge of collapse, an unlikely hero steps up - JP. With no hunting experience, can he tap into his primal instincts and bring back a boar?

10,000 BC

Years 9-10, 11-12 Ancient history, Science

It's mid-November and the tribe are worried whether Mel's plan to ration the food for the remaining two and a half weeks will work. Paul Barnes isn't convinced: he's been busy setting deer traps. Although unsuccessful, he and Mike are exhausted from hours of hunting. Paul becomes more and more desperate in his pursuit of wild game and more and more exhausted. With Paul on the verge of collapse, an unlikely hero steps up - JP. With no hunting experience, can he tap into his primal instincts and bring back a boar?

The amazing successes and stunning failures of ancient military engineers have directly affected the weapons and tactics we use today. In fact, an ancient Greek weapon is still used on modern aircraft carriers. How did the Chinese develop a catapult with a firing rate of 10 rounds per second? Did the living horse battlefield torpedoes of the middle ages battlefield actually work? And, how did the great Carthaginian general Hannibal cross the highest mountain range in Europe using equipment still used by today's Special Forces, dissolving solid rocks in his path using an ancient chemical version of dynamite?

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The amazing successes and stunning failures of ancient military engineers have directly affected the weapons and tactics we use today. In fact, an ancient Greek weapon is still used on modern aircraft carriers. How did the Chinese develop a catapult with a firing rate of 10 rounds per second? Did the living horse battlefield torpedoes of the middle ages battlefield actually work? And, how did the great Carthaginian general Hannibal cross the highest mountain range in Europe using equipment still used by today's Special Forces, dissolving solid rocks in his path using an ancient chemical version of dynamite?

Winter is approaching and the tribe needs to ensure they have enough food and wood to survive the next four weeks. Since Steve left, Mel is in charge of rations. Paul has had bronchial pneumonia for three days, but when he returns to the camp he challenges Mel on her plan. With so much work to do, the tribe can't afford to lose another member.

10,000 BC

Years 9-10, 11-12 Ancient history, Science

Winter is approaching and the tribe needs to ensure they have enough food and wood to survive the next four weeks. Since Steve left, Mel is in charge of rations. Paul has had bronchial pneumonia for three days, but when he returns to the camp he challenges Mel on her plan. With so much work to do, the tribe can't afford to lose another member.

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Day 22: after the evacuation due to heavy snow, the remaining seven tribe members continue the experiment. They must preserve and store every last ounce of a deer carcass for the remainder of the five weeks, which causes a disagreement within the group. Leader Steve decides to leave the tribe and Mel steps up but Josie does something inconceivable to JP, making any chance of survival look bleak.

10,000 BC

Years 9-10, 11-12 Ancient history, Science

Day 22: after the evacuation due to heavy snow, the remaining seven tribe members continue the experiment. They must preserve and store every last ounce of a deer carcass for the remainder of the five weeks, which causes a disagreement within the group. Leader Steve decides to leave the tribe and Mel steps up but Josie does something inconceivable to JP, making any chance of survival look bleak.

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After 10 days living in the Stone Age, 12 members remain and food rations are desperately low. As temperature drops, mum Rachel is struggling. During snow fall, the situation becomes dangerous and there's no choice but to evacuate to modern day, giving everyone a taste of what they're missing.

10,000 BC

Years 9-10, 11-12 Ancient history, Science

After 10 days living in the Stone Age, 12 members remain and food rations are desperately low. As temperature drops, mum Rachel is struggling. During snow fall, the situation becomes dangerous and there's no choice but to evacuate to modern day, giving everyone a taste of what they're missing.

Day eight: the tribe only have enough rations to get them through another day. Steve uses the last of his dried meat rations to bait a fishing basket, hoping to catch something that will save the group from hunger. But when he finds just two small crayfish, the pressure is on.

10,000 BC

Years 9-10, 11-12 Ancient history, Science

Day eight: the tribe only have enough rations to get them through another day. Steve uses the last of his dried meat rations to bait a fishing basket, hoping to catch something that will save the group from hunger. But when he finds just two small crayfish, the pressure is on.

Four days ago, twenty modern Britons entered the Stone Age. They have just a few days of rations left and their energy levels are dropping. Two kilometres to the west of their Stone Age camp is a lake teeming with protein-rich fish. Leader Steve Nicholson takes a party on a mission, but with no compass, map or GPS device, it's no easy task.

10,000 BC

Years 9-10, 11-12 Ancient history, Science

Four days ago, twenty modern Britons entered the Stone Age. They have just a few days of rations left and their energy levels are dropping. Two kilometres to the west of their Stone Age camp is a lake teeming with protein-rich fish. Leader Steve Nicholson takes a party on a mission, but with no compass, map or GPS device, it's no easy task.

Three days in 10,000 BC and the tribe's first morning without mentor stone age archaeologist Klint Janulis. It's down to the remaining eighteen strangers to work together if they're to stand any chance of surviving the next eight weeks. Emotions are high and food rations are low; it's up to designated leader Steve to make sure the group survives.

10,000 BC

Years 9-10, 11-12 Ancient history, Science

Three days in 10,000 BC and the tribe's first morning without mentor stone age archaeologist Klint Janulis. It's down to the remaining eighteen strangers to work together if they're to stand any chance of surviving the next eight weeks. Emotions are high and food rations are low; it's up to designated leader Steve to make sure the group survives.

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