Watch How Earth Made Us

How Earth Made Us is a stunning four-part documentary series produced by the BBC and presented by geologist Iain Stewart. The show premiered in 2010 and takes us on a journey through the geological history of our planet, exploring how the Earth has shaped the human experience throughout time.

The show's primary focus is on the interplay between humans and the planet we inhabit. It examines the ways in which the landscape, geology, and other natural forces have influenced and shaped human history. Each episode of the series takes viewers on a journey to explore the different landscapes and environments that have had a significant impact on the development of civilization.

The first episode, "Deep Earth," investigates how the structure of the Earth itself has influenced human history. It begins with an exploration of how the Earth's molten core powers the planet's magnetic field, which protects us from dangerous cosmic rays. It then moves on to examine the ways in which the Earth's tectonic plates have shaped the continents and created the landscapes we inhabit. The episode also explores how the movement of these plates has created volcanoes and earthquakes, which have both endangered and enriched human societies throughout history.

The second episode, "Water," explores the impact that water has had on human civilization. From ancient Egypt's dependence on the Nile River to the role of water in shaping the industrial revolution in Britain, the episode examines the many ways in which humanity has relied on water throughout history. It also investigates how changing climates and the repositioning of continents have altered the availability of water and influenced the course of human history.

The third episode, "Wind," examines how the movement of air around the planet has influenced the development of human societies. From the role of trade winds in shaping global trade routes to the influence of hurricanes and typhoons, the episode explores the many ways in which humans have had to adapt to the power of the wind.

The final episode, "Fire," looks at the complex relationship between humans and fire. From the controlled use of fire in agriculture and cooking to the destructive power of wildfires and volcanic eruptions, the episode examines how humans have both harnessed and feared the power of fire throughout history.

Throughout the series, Iain Stewart is joined by experts in various fields, from historians and archaeologists to climate scientists and engineers. Together, they provide an in-depth look at how the Earth has influenced human history and how humans have, in turn, altered the planet. The series is a visually stunning production that makes effective use of stunning cinematography, computer-generated imagery, and cutting-edge science to bring the many complexities of earth history to life.

Overall, How Earth Made Us is an engaging and informative documentary series that offers a unique perspective on the history of human civilization. By examining the ways in which geological forces have shaped our planet and our societies throughout history, the series offers a fresh and insightful look at the human experience.