A Twist of History

The Cuban Missile Crisis brought the world to the brink of nuclear disaster. A pivotal moment occurred on a Soviet submarine where a single officer's calm decision averted catastrophe. The episode delves into the tense atmosphere of the Cold War, highlighting critical choices made by President Kennedy and others. Furthermore, it honors the legacy of the officer whose bravery is celebrated posthumously, redefining heroism during one of humanity's most perilous times.

Dive into the tangled history of money and politics in America. Discover how titans like Rockefeller and Carnegie wielded their power until they underestimated Teddy Roosevelt. Explore the rise and fall of monopolies and the community's battle against corporate giants, highlighted by investigative journalist Ida Tarbell's unwavering courage. Hear about a tycoon's bizarre obsession with rare cheeses as he tries to evade legal scrutiny, all while revealing the darker side of wealth and influence.

Discover how a fierce tornado became a key player during the War of 1812, saving Washington, D.C. from British destruction. Explore President Madison's military struggles and the unexpected twists of nature that led to victory. The aftermath of the Battle of Baltimore not only inspired the 'Star-Spangled Banner' but also showcased James Monroe's pivotal role in American history. This episode reveals the remarkable influence of weather on the nation's formation and resilience during a tumultuous time.

Explore the incredible journey of Temujin, a boy who rose to become Genghis Khan, united the Mongol tribes, and forever changed the political landscape. Discover his military strategies that forged a vast empire and how his legacy influences modern genetics and ancestry. The compelling narrative highlights his early struggles, pivotal betrayals, and the family dynamics shaping his rule, offering a captivating glimpse into the mind of a conqueror.

Peeling a banana uncovers much more than a tasty fruit, it reveals a fraught history riddled with violent coups, espionage, political assassinations and international wars.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A goal of helping to fight against the Nazis during World War II leads a Hollywood star, known as the "most beautiful woman in the world," to invent the technology which changes the world.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The assassination of Julius Caesar left an enormous power vacuum in Rome, thrusting his successors into an epic, intercontinental battle for control of the empire that reshaped the future of the modern world.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Discover how a rebellious doctor transformed the landscape of modern medicine with audacious experiments. Dive into the thrilling tale of a young voyager whose experiences sparked pivotal medical advancements. Explore the ethical dilemmas faced by early practitioners and the groundbreaking steps that defined a new era of healthcare. This captivating journey reveals the explosive beginnings of medical science, combining adventure and ethical quandaries in a way that reshapes our understanding of health.

World War I was known as the War to End All Wars due to its scale and loss of life. At the height of the fighting, when American soldiers on the front lines longed for home, an unlikely beacon of hope arrived.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In 1605, a plot to kill the King of England was underway, and the man who attempted it, along with his name, would go down in infamy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.