History 101

Infographics and archival footage deliver bite-size history lessons on scientific breakthroughs, social movements and world-changing discoveries.

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Episodes

1. GPS

Once a secret military program, GPS now guides our daily lives, from providing directions to finding friends. But what do we trade for this convenience?

2. MP3s

MP3s transformed how we listen to music — and spawned digital piracy. Streaming helped the industry recover, but how can artists get their fair share?

3. Credit Cards

Credit cards changed the global economy and attitudes about personal spending, but record levels of consumer debt beg the question: Just who's in charge?

4. Psychedelics

Growing evidence suggests that psychedelic drugs could treat brain injuries and psychological problems. But can we get past their controversial history?

5. Bottled Water

Bottled water is a big business, selling itself as a tastier and healthier alternative to the tap variety. Is there truth behind the claims?

6. Dating Apps

Thanks to dating apps, finding love is easier than ever. But are we now so focused on playing the game that we're missing out on real connection?

7. Lasers

They're used for everything from entertainment to medicine — and now for weapons straight out of science fiction. Have lasers become too hot to handle?