Mankind Decoded

S1 E72013

Fire, Coal, and Oil

Episode Synopsis

Early man rubbed two sticks together and created fire. We learn to cook our food, saving vital energy. As a result, our brains expand — making us the most intelligent species on the planet. Armed with fire, we experiment by heating minerals to make stronger tools allowing us to fight wars and build civilizations. But burning wood destroys our landscape, so Mankind exploits a new energy — oil.

Mankind Decoded

Fire, Coal, and Oil

Episode Synopsis

Next Episodes

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