This series by James Burke is just superb. Although 30 years old, the history is presented in such a way that it all seems brand new. He takes everyday objects and after detailing our modern day dependance on them, goes on to describe some improbable and yet refreshing connectins to various points, places and people in history without whom some of these modern objects may have taken longer to discover, and in some cases not discovered at all. A very good "potted" history lesson, and more importantly, you will enjoy the time spent watching.