Secrets of Ancient Empires

The image of the bustling city has come to encapsulate everything we think of as modern. But what were the first cities like? This episode explores the hierarchical societies that evolved into our modern trades and professions, looking at the first ancient codes of law and how they were enforced, along with the origins of taxation.

In ancient times, great warriors made their reputations through fighting for glory and protecting their lands from foreign invasion. This episode reveals the truth behind the savagery of ancient battle, how weapons were made and developed as well as how sophisticated tactics were introduced to the first armies.

The common thread that joined all great ancient powers was the need to trade. This episode explains how trade was carried out across continents long before a single road was constructed.

How did man evolve from wandering hunter to sophisticated city dweller? How did early cities and civilizations develop? This episode explores how the latest archaeological findings are re-shaping our understanding of the very first civilizations.

The bloody act of human sacrifice combined with bizarre ritualized acts formed the backdrop to ancient organized religious systems. This powerful episode explores the darker side of life in the ancient world, where acts that appear immoral to the modern eye were an integral part of temple life.