Big History Season 1 Episode 3 Gold Fever

In season 1, episode 3 of Big History titled "Gold Fever," the show explores how gold became one of the most valuable resources in human history. The episode begins by looking at how gold forms deep within the earth and how it is mined, discussing both the physical process of digging and the social structures that have developed around gold mining, from small-scale operations to massive corporations.

As the episode continues, it delves into the ways in which gold has been used throughout history, from the early civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt to the ancient Greeks and Romans. From coins to jewelry, gold has been used to signify wealth and power, and has often been associated with religious and cultural rituals.

The episode then moves on to the Age of Exploration, when European countries began sending explorers to the Americas in search of gold and other resources. This led to the conquest of civilizations such as the Aztecs and Incas, who had amassed large amounts of gold and other precious resources. The episode discusses how this gold rush led to the development of trade routes and new economic systems, and how it ultimately fueled the rise of capitalism.

The latter half of the episode focuses on the modern impact of gold mining, including the environmental and social consequences of large-scale mining operations. The show discusses the use of toxic chemicals in the mining process, and how this can lead to serious health problems for both workers and nearby communities. It also looks at the impact of gold mining on indigenous peoples and their cultures, as well as the political and economic consequences of large-scale mining operations in developing countries.

Overall, Big History season 1, episode 3 explores the history of gold and its impact on human civilization. Through a mix of scientific and historical analysis, the show provides a comprehensive view of how gold has shaped human society, from its earliest origins to its modern-day impact.