Biography - Season 3

Harry S. Truman

He made the automobile accessible to the common man. The common man made him rich. Henry Ford was one of the great innovators of our time. When the car he invented became so popular he couldn't build them fast enough he came up with the modern assembly plant to meet demand. The rest is history. BIOGRAPHY profiles the life of the industrial giant who earned notoriety for his intolerance as well as his inventiveness. Interviews with former workers and family members point out his genius and eccentricities while automotive historians trace his monumental career from his first hand-built car to saving his company with the introduction of the V-8 at an age when most men are long retired. This is the fascinating story of the driven man who changed the way we all live ironically spelling an end to the America he loved.

Mata Hari

He risked everything to free his nation. Now venture into the incredible life and legacy of Paul Revere, the master silversmith who forever changed the course of American history. Every child knows of Revere’s thrilling “midnight ride,” but beyond the folklore was a man at the center of a revolution. Although he is one of the country’s first folk heroes—inspiring Longfellow’s famous 1861 poem—few people realize that Revere also led the Sons of Liberty, risked death as a courier and spy, helped organize the Boston Tea Party, and used his smithery skills to engrave powerful propaganda that enraged British rulers. Biography presents a rousingly unique look at the famed patriot, chronicling his service as a Continental Army colonel in the war—and beyond—to his prosperous life as an early American industrialist.

A video tribute to a martial arts legend, Bruce Lee. Examined are his early years in Hong Kong and his journey to Hollywood, his role of Kato on the TV series 'The Green Hornet', and his years as the martial arts instructor to the stars. Lee's spectacular rise to super stardom through his Kung Fu films is detailed, with a revealing look at both the on-screen action and behind the scenes controversy. Celebrity interviews include actor James Coburn talking about Lee as a teacher and collaborator, and actress Diane McBain on Lee's Kato years. Lee's successors in martial arts cinema are profiled, and theories offered about mysterious deaths of Bruce Lee and his son Brandon. Plus rare footage and more! Although his life was cut short at the age of 32, Bruce Lee-- through his movies and his teachings-- will forever be remembered as the Immortal Dragon!

The biography details Sid Caesar's rise to television superstardom as the creative force behind legendary 1950s variety programs like Your Show of Shows and Caesar's Hour. It highlights the unmatched comedic talent that Sid Caesar surrounded himself with, featuring contributions and reflections from iconic writers and co-stars such as Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner, Neil Simon, and Woody Allen. The program analyzes how his frantic sketch comedy, physical humor, and smart satire laid the foundational blueprint for future sketch shows like Saturday Night Live.

Follows John D. Rockefeller's ruthless and focused pursuit to control the oil refining industry through Standard Oil, making him the world's first billionaire. Examines how he avoided personal excess and passed down a tradition of giving. Looks at how his son and later generations dedicated their lives to charitable foundations and public works funded by the family fortune.

Countless books, documentaries, and even dramatized accounts have centered on America's royalty, the Kennedys of Massachusetts. No stone has gone unturned in the media's fervent examination of this fascinating family. But the youngest Kennedy, Ted, has often been dismissed as living in the proverbial shadows of his brothers. This Biography carefully and thoughtfully documents his intriguing life, the scandals and the redemption, the tragedies and the triumphs.

He took a nation of raw recruits and turned them into the finest fighting force in history: The United States Army of World War II. When Pearl Harbor plunged America into war, the nation was unprepared to fight. Yet within months, G.I.s were tearing through North Africa, ready to storm Europe. General Bradley was the military genius who made the American assault possible. Called "The finest Group Commander in any nation's ground forces" by General George Marshall, here is the story of Bradley's brilliant military career. Made with the cooperation of the archives of the U.S. Naval Institute, this program includes government footage of the training exercises that prepared the nation for war, and interviews with the men Bradley commanded. Discover the dramatic behind-the-scenes story of the strategic mastermind who helped change the course of World War II.

One-hour A&E biography hosted by Jack Perkins showing the life story of Marilyn with home movies, film clips, and interviews with peers like Robert Mitchum, Shelley Winters, and Susan Strasberg.

Documentary about Harry Houdini (1874-1926) which includes on camera appearances by Patrick Culliton, Penn and Teller, and Houdini's last living assistant, Dorothy Young.

The life, military career, and presidency of George Washington—tracing his path from a privileged youth, surveyor, and Virginia farmer to British military officer, general of the Continental Army, and the first President of the United States. Explore the truths and explode the myths of the man who remains "First in war, first in peace, first in the hearts of his countrymen."

Portrait of the teacher who died in the tragic explosion of the space shuttle Challenger in 1986. Follows her journey from a classroom teacher to a space pioneer through interviews with parents and students.

Explores their early days running a print shop and a bicycle repair and manufacturing business in Dayton, Ohio. Details their path from studying gliders and bird flight to achieving the first powered flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. The world knows them as the bicycle mechanics who taught the world to fly here, the personal stories of Wilbur and Orville are told.

We learn about Roddenberry's early life, service as a World War II Army Air Corps pilot, and tenure as an L.A. Police Department officer. We see his transition into television writing for shows like Dragnet and Have Gun – Will Travel. We learn about the creation, rejections, and eventual greenlighting of the original Star Trek series with the help of Lucille Ball and Desilu. Contains interviews and retrospectives detailing his optimistic vision for science fiction and humanity.

He was the poster-boy for the excess and glitz of the '80s. When the economy took a turn for the worse, experts assumed that his time at the top had come to an end. But Donald Trump is back and stronger than ever. See how he pulled off one of the most remarkable business turnarounds in history, remaking his empire in the face of the economic climate of the '90s. In a remarkable interview, Trump talks about the low points filing for bankruptcy for his beloved Taj Mahal casino and the difficult divorce from Ivana as well as his carefully crafted return to the center stage of high finance. Extensive footage shows the best and worst moments of his time in the public eye, while interviews with friends, colleagues and associates shed light on the character of a man who refused to stay down for long. Join Biography for a revealing portrait of the phoenix-like rebirth of Donald Trump the master of the deal.

Frank Capra's rise to fame as one of early Hollywood's most acclaimed directors. We learn about his birth in Bisacquino, Sicily, his arrival in the United States, and his engineering studies at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). Details his service in the U.S. Armed Forces in Europe during World War I and an accidental meeting with a former instructor that led him into silent films as a technician with Mack Sennett. Explores how Capra learned every aspect of filmmaking—including lab work, editing, and splicing in San Francisco—before joining Columbia Pictures and turning the studio from "Poverty Row" into a major competitor during the talkie and Depression eras. This episode features one of director Frank Capra's final interviews, recorded in 1988 for Italian television.

For over 150 years, his legacy has been immortalized in literature, song, and cinema. While master hunter Davy Crockett is perhaps best known for his struggle to push further westward into the American frontier and for his advocacy for the poor, he was also a thrice-elected member of the U.S. Congress. Crockett's rugged upbringing in the backwoods of Tennessee set the tone for what would become a life marked by adventure and loyalty to his fellow man. From his disheartening service in the U.S. Army to his profession of the principles of common justice to his life's end at the Alamo, Crockett will always be an indelible symbol of the great American spirit. BIOGRAPHY employs dramatic reenactments and captivating interviews with noted historians to tell the epic tale of America's beloved "King of the Wild Frontier".

In a time of innocence, his straightforward cowboy manner made him and his horse American icons. At the height of his fame, Roy Rogers was one of Hollywood's biggest stars. In 1948, his movies sold nearly 100 million tickets. In the 1950s, more than 2 million children bought comics books each month breathlessly following the adventures of Roy and his Palomino, Trigger. Now, for the first time, Boigraphy presents the full story of the poor boy from Cincinnati who became "The King of the Cowboys." In home movies, film outtakes and rare TV clips, we catch a glimpse of Rogers' lightning rise to stardom, from his humble beginnings as a radio singer and guitar player to his crowning as a matinee idol. Gallop into the bygone world of a favorite American hero.

Here's Willie Nelson's official, authorized biography! "Willie Nelson: My Life" is the close-up portrait of America's favorite singer/songwriter, from the days he sold one of his early hits, Family Bible, for $50 to buy milk for his children through his long struggle to superstardom. Included are frank and sometimes humorous interviews with Willie and his friends Ray Charles (who duets with Wilie on the song "Seven Spanish Angels"), Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Emmylou Harris, Sydney Pollack, Gary Busey, Mel Tillis, Ray Price, Jerry Jeff Walker and others.

Patsy Cline died in a plane crash on March 5, 1963. Now, her musical legacy lives on in Remembering Patsy. This heartfelt celebration features 17 great Patsy Cline songs, and 10 rare television appearances, recently discovered and never before seen on video. You'll meet Patsy through her intimate home movies, her personal letters, as read by Arista recording artist Michele Wright, and the fond reminiscences of Patsy's husband, Charlie Dick, and Willie Nelson, Loretta Lynn, George Jones, Mel Tillis, Roy Clark, Eddy Arnold, Bill Anderson and Jan Howard. A new generation of stars including Trisha Yearwood, k.d. lang, Ronna Reeves, Lisa Stewart, and Marsha Thorntorn, add insight into Patsy's influence and proof positive that Patsy Cline does live on in her music.

The program traces his life story, starting from his difficult childhood and runaway youth to his rise as a Vaudeville juggling sensation, Broadway star, and ultimately, a legendary Paramount Pictures leading man. The feature comprehensively covers his brilliant career milestones while directly confronting his internal struggles, including his notorious, self-destructive battles with severe alcoholism.

One of this century's most respected and admired figures, she was a humanitarian who transformed the place of women in society, and in the White House. Eleanor Roosevelt created the tradition of the activist First Lady. A pioneer among Presidents' wives, she formed a staff, held press conferences, and defined an agenda beyond that of homemaker. She fought for Civil Rights, for women and the oppressed. Yet this towering public figure was also an orphan whose family was destroyed by alcoholism, the unhappy wife of a philandering husband, and a passionate friend. Experts and scholars finally succeed in connecting her public and private lives in this unique and intimate portrait. Revisit the complete, inspiring life story of Eleanor Roosevelt, champion of freedom and human dignity.

He is perhaps the greatest sports hero in American history. George Herman “Babe” Ruth, Jr., was more than just a ballplayer—he was a beloved public figure whose popularity at one time seemed to transcend that of baseball itself. Profane and earthy, “The Babe” had a warmth of spirit about him that both electrified and inspired the nation. In his lifetime, he set several Major League records—the most notable of which took place in 1927 when he hit a record-breaking 60 home runs in a single season. From his early childhood in Baltimore to the infamous 1919 sale by the Boston Red Sox to his glory years with the New York Yankees, Biography takes an in-depth look at the immortal slugger who swatted his way into the hearts of baseball fans forever.

Pope John Paul II stood as the most popular pontiff in history, a spiritual compass to almost a billion Catholics worldwide, and a powerful symbol of peace to countless others. Considered an outsider choice for the papacy in 1978, Karol Jozef Wojtyla led over 16.7 million people in worship, met nearly 700 heads of state, survived an assassination attempt, and helped facilitate the end of Communism in the Soviet Union. With interviews of childhood friends, colleagues, and Vatican officials, this is the complete story of Pope John Paul II’s remarkable life. From his carefree youth in Poland to his human rights activism, to his late struggles with Parkinson’s Disease, the compassion and inspiration of the most traveled Pope in history is portrayed in its entirety. Join Biography in a touching memorial to one of the world’s great icons of peace, His Holiness, Pope John Paul II.

She created a new kind of screen heroine, a liberated woman in a world dominated by men, and rose to be recognized as "first lady of the American screen." More bold than beautiful, more brazen than beguiling, Bette Davis starred in classics like Jezebel and All About Eve. She won two Academy Awards, was nominated for 10 more, and earned the adulation of generations of movie fans. Equally independent off-screen, her battles with studio brass were legendary. Here is her story, from her childhood and her first triumphs in Hollywood, to her ascension, eclipse, and ultimate return to unprecedented acclaim. Share the magical memories of one of the most inspiring and electrifying women ever to light up the silver screen.

She was the first person cast on Saturday Night Live, and arguably the most beloved. Her memorable characters—helped establish the show as a cultural phenomenon and earned her an Emmy Award. But behind the laughs, Gilda Radner's life was a roller coaster of emotional highs and lows. In this intimate, feature-length profile, Biography looks at the woman behind the characters. Through rare home movies, exclusive clips, and interviews with those who knew her best—including Lorne Michaels, Laraine Newman, and her husband, Gene Wilder—telling her story using her own voice, drawn from the audio tapes she recorded for her bestselling autobiography, It's Always Something. From her childhood struggles with weight and the loss of her father, to the dizzying heights of late-night stardom and her brave, final battle with ovarian cancer, this is the definitive, moving portrait of a comedy legend.

He was America's ambassador to the world, a unique individual who came to symbolize the inventiveness and industriousness of an entire nation. Benjamin Franklin's fascinating and diverse accomplishments defined him as a Renaissance man who will be forever enshrined in America's pantheon of heroes. He discovered electricity, invented the fuel-efficient Franklin Stove, and authored the still popular Poor Richard's Almanac. Most importantly, he offered wise leadership as a member of the continental Congress and ambassador to France during a young land's tumultuous drive toward freedom. The astounding story of one of the most unique, colorful and captivating figures in American history is told here through expert commentary, archival material, and Franklin's own writings.

He came from the streets of Brooklyn and went on to dominate the heavyweight boxing world like no one since Muhammad Ali. In this in-depth program, Biography interviews Mike Tyson’s childhood friends, members of his boxing camp, and various sports journalists to paint the portrait of a man whose battles with personal demons dealt him some of worst blows of his life. See footage of the young fighter before he was famous, and get an inside look at some of his career highlights. Trace the champion’s tumultuous life out of the ring: from the street fight with Mitch “Blood” Green and his troubled marriage to Robin Givens to the 1992 rape conviction that destroyed all he had. Mike Tyson is the tragic saga of the championship boxer whose signature aggression proved both a blessing and a curse.

Examine the broad canvas of Michelangelo's life and legacy to probe the very soul of the artist who was recognized as a genius in his own lifetime.

Descend into the dark world and tragic life of Edgar Allan Poe, the melancholy author who is the uncontested master of the macabre, and hear excerpts from his famous works. A genius whose gloomy nature made his own life as tragic as one of his strange tales, Poe's haunting poems and chilling stories established him as one of the most important men of American letters. But behind his popularity and artistic success was a personal life defined by broken hopes and failure. This extraordinary program tells Poe's complete story, from the death of his parents when he was three to his tragic collapse on the street at age 40. Dramatic readings recall the devastation of his broken engagement and the loss of his child bride. And experts explore the bouts of depression and addiction that tormented the man and gave birth to his dark and brilliant art. Biography takes an intimate look at one of literature's most complex and fascinating figures.

Ancient art and period accounts, along with commentary from the world's leading Egyptologists brings the fabled story of Cleopatra to life. Delve into the fascinating life of the most powerful woman in the world, circa 50 BC. Discover the passion of this queen and witness the scandals that shaped the Roman Empire.

Acclaimed concert pianist Van Cliburn opens up to documentary filmmakers in this release that offers an intimate look at Cliburn's life and career presented through a collection of interviews with the pianist himself as well as those who know him best. Performance footage not previously broadcast or commercially available offers something new for Cliburn fans who think they've seen it all, and revealing conversations with such contemporaries as Marilyn Horne, Leontyne Price, and others offer a look at the side of Cliburn rarely seen by the public. An accompanying audio compact disc offers complete performances of songs heard in the documentary.

In the darkest days of World War II, he exhorted his troops to "Hit hard. Hit fast. Hit often." Once the American Navy was ready to fight, he oversaw some of the greatest victories in its history. From his time commanding destroyers in World War I through his promotion to Admiral of the Fleet in 1945, this is the story of the man whose leadership inspired all those who fought with him and commanded respect from his enemies. In countless interviews, the men who served under the "Bull" recall the bluster, bravado and tactical skill of the legendary admiral. BIOGRAPHY presents the stirring life of a legendary warrior, a man whose legacy is defined in the minds and hearts of those who served him. In gatherings of WWII sailors to this day, the proudest of all are those who answer the traditional question "What ship were you on?" by saying, simply, "I was with Halsey."

He was weak, frail, unable to walk, yet he marched the nation to victory in the greatest conflict in world history. Much of Franklin Delano Roosevelt's greatness rests on his remarkable leadership in World War II. Here is the incredible behind-the- scenes chronicle of those turbulent years, beginning with FDR's election to an unprecedented third term. See his battles with isolationists, witness the attack on Pearl Harbor and hear the speeches that stirred the entire world. Learn the details of his secret talks with Churchill and the Yalta Conference, and join the nation as it mourned a leader who passed away when victory lay at hand. Here is the epic story of the monumental statesman who guided America through the darkest years in modern world history.

He was the last Japanese ruler to uphold the Shinto idea of imperial divinity. His rule saw his nation transformed from an ancient society to a modern powerhouse and ravaged by war. Emperor Hirohito ruled for over 60 years. He led his nation into a devastating war, but oversaw its rebirth as well. BIOGRAPHY traces the long life of this remarkable figure through expert interviews and extensive archival footage. Follow the young prince to Europe in his 1921 the first Japanese prince to leave his homeland, and see footage of his coronation as emperor and proclamation of divinity in 1926. Trace the elements that led his nation into war, and learn how he eventually accepted defeat and allowed his beloved nation to be steered toward the future. And see remarkable interviews with confidantes and those who knew him. Biography explores the life of the emperor whose dramatic life mirrored the transformation of his nation.

A look at the life and career of actor/director Clint Eastwood, including scenes from his past film and television work and interviews with friends, fellow actors and crew members who have worked with him over the years.

He breaks into houses uninvited—yet he comes to give. Almost as old as Christianity itself, Santa Claus is one of history’s most beloved figures, one who has symbolized the magic, enchantment, and unquestioning belief of childhood. Though derived from the doctrines of various religions, Santa Claus symbolizes the secular spirit of generosity. Santa Claus embarks on a journey through history to reveal the roots of Father Christmas, from the Roman Befana to the Germanic Berchte and Knecht Ruprecht, from Saint Nicholas to Père Noël, and expose the historicity and magic of this jolly figure. Fascinating interviews with historians and experts—including Tim Allen, star of The Santa Clause—illuminate his extraordinary legacy. Join Biography in uncovering the real history of this timeless character, one of the most enduring and charming figures ever.

For over 40 years, ventriloquist Shari Lewis and her sassy hand puppet Lamb Chop were the most beloved team in children's television. Together with her other puppets Charlie Horse and Hush Puppy, Shari raised three generations of kids and struggled to stay relevant in an industry that was constantly changing. In this audiobook, co-written and recorded by Shari's daughter Mallory Lewis (who now performs with Lamb Chop) and producer-biographer Nat Segaloff, you'll hear how Shari survived using sheer will and talent, how she re-invented herself to meet new challenges, and the never-before-told story of the origin of Lamb Chop.

For six decades, the Three Stooges ran amuck in a riotous frenzy of eye-poking, ear-slapping, kicks, jabs, punches and frying pans to the cranium. Now Laughsmith Entertainment and A&E offer fans of the Moronic Maestros a chance to relive the Golden Age of Stoogery. Through rare recordings, exclusive interviews and outtakes of behind-the-scenes antics, "Stooges: The Men behind the Mayhem" tells the pure, uncensored Stooge story--from the early vaudeville years with Shemp and Ted Healy, through the golden years at Columbia Pictures with Curly, to the final feature films with Curly Joe DeRita, "the last Stooge." Whether you're fascinated by the unrestrained id, or just enjoy the good, clean humor of pliers applied to the nose, you'll find something to love in this in-depth look at America's most beloved madcaps The Three Stooges!

He was one of the fastest-rising politicians in the country when he was suddenly stricken with polio. Although the debilitating disease robbed him of the power to walk, Franklin Delano Roosevelt refused to succumb to despair. Join Biography for the remarkable story of FDR's decade-long battle with polio and his quest to return to political prominence. Biographers and historians describe his ambitious journey, from his rehabilitating bid for governor of New York to his rivalry with a fellow politician who claimed that FDR would be "dead within the year," unknowingly fueling FDR's mission. Unique footage includes excerpts from the 1932 Democratic nomination speech that re-established his place in the party and paved his way to the presidency. FDR: Years of Crisis offers an intimate glimpse into the life of one of America's most extraordinary men.

Traces the life of Andrew Carnegie, who went from being a poor Scottish immigrant to a fabled man of wealth. Carnegie built a fortune by amassing stock in the growth industries of trains and steel, then started sharing it. Today libraries, concert halls, and universities across the United States have benefited from his philanthropy.

A portrait of "Old Hickory," President Andrew Jackson (1767-1845), from his Tennessee law days through his military career to his tenure as the seventh U.S. President. Included: interviews with historians. Monte Markham is the narrator.

The program tracks the legendary journey of Aristotle Onassis, from his origins as a penniless war refugee to his transformation into a multi-millionaire tycoon and global icon. After his family lost everything in the 1922 Greco-Turkish War, a teenage Onassis fled to Argentina with less than $100 in his pocket. Through sheer ambition, a successful stint in tobacco importing, and an uncanny foresight into the value of massive oil tankers, he built one of the largest private maritime fleets in human history—earning him the moniker "The Golden Greek."

He commanded one of the most feared armies of antiquity, sweeping across Europe in an orgy of destruction and conquest. But the legendary conqueror was more than just a bloodthirsty barbarian. Attila the Hun was one of the most successful commanders whoever lived. Under his leadership, the Huns captured all the territory between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean and made a number of successful advances into Western Europe, conquering half of Italy and extending their influence as far as France. Attila: Scourge of God profiles this legendary figure, a shrewd, tough, at times thoughtful leader who forged a loose confederation of nomadic tribes into the most feared military machine of its time. Trace his incredible exploits, including the battle at Châlons, one of the most terrible in all of history, where contemporary chroniclers estimated that Atilla lost over 200,000 men! Biography blazes across Europe on the trial of one of the greatest commanders of all time Attila the Hun.

The American Revolution bred many heroes whose courage and leadership on the battlefield helped win independence. But one of America's greatest commanders found fame as the most notorious traitor in history. What made General Benedict Arnold turn against the cause of his infant country? Biography. journeys back to the battlefields of the Revolution for an in-depth look at a career of stunning victories that went unrewarded. Despite defeating the British at Ticonderoga, nearly making Canada America's 14th colony with the victory in the Battle of Saratoga and engaging British warships in Lake Champlain in America's first naval battle, Arnold was continually passed over for promotion. The breaking point came when Arnold was nearly court martialed. Soon afterwards, British spy John Andre was captured with documents Arnold gave him, and Benedict was forced to go over to the British side. Join Biography for the tragic tale of a man who eventually felt abandoned by every cause he espoused.

Born to a life of obscurity and dark despair, his genius made him one of the most successful and beloved figures of his time. Internationally famous just months after his first novel was serialized, Charles Dickens was among the world's first literary stars. But success and acclaim could not banish the ghosts of his childhood marked by his father's confinement in debtors' prison or keep him from the deep loneliness that haunted him until his death. This extraordinary program tells the full story of Dickens' remarkable life, from his year as a child laborer to his troubled marriage, his love affairs and the spectacular successes of Oliver Twist and A Tale of Two Cities. Biography presents an unforgettable look at the man whose originality, compassion and exuberance created some of literature's most cherished works.

Charles Manson: Journey Into Evil offers a sobering analysis of the life and beliefs of the infamous murderer and cult leader Charles Manson. Narrated by Judy Muller, the film features interviews with Manson himself, as well as with those who closely followed his activities, including members of his group known as ‘The Family’ and discussions of their murderous crusade, dubbed ‘Helter Skelter’.

He has been king and slave, hero and villain, renowned throughout the movie-going world for the heroic figures he played during his early years in Hollywood: Moses, Ben-Hur, El Cid and Michelangelo. In a wide range of roles, from classical to futuristic, he has shown himself a consummate actor. But Charlton Heston has always been more than a star. Although he is a private man, he has often appeared to be a very public one, willing to speak up on issues he believes in--however controversial they may be. Here, in his own words, is Heston's life as well as highlights of a career that resulted in over 60 motion pictures.

He was determined to find a western route to Asia but wound up discovering the New World. But despite his accomplishments, he died a broken, largely forgotten man. Christopher Columbus became the first European to set foot on the New World. Evidence now proves that the Vikings were there long before him, but even in his own time later explorers usurped his glory! Biography uses period accounts, rare art and artifacts and interviews with world-renowned historians to tell Columbus's often-reinterpreted story. See how he convinced Ferdinand and Isabella to fund his journey and how he never gave up believing that he had reached Asia. Discover how his fortunes and reputation sank so quickly that by the time of his fourth voyage Spanish officials would not let him anchor in their waters. From the dream that led him across the horizon to the fortunes that deserted him and the ongoing controversy over his true place in history, this is the dramatic story of Christopher Columbus.

Crazy Horse was a legendary war leader of the Oglala Lakota who dedicated his life to defending Native American territory and culture from U.S. government expansion. Known for his fierce bravery, tactical brilliance, and refusal to be photographed, he became a central figure in the Plains Indian Wars. He earned immense prestige during Fetterman's Fight (1866) and the Battle of the Rosebud (1876). His most famous triumph came on June 25, 1876, when he led a major Lakota and Cheyenne force to decisively defeat Lt. Col. George A. Custer at the Battle of the Little Bighorn. Despite this historic victory, relentless military pressure and the destruction of the buffalo herds forced his people into starvation. To protect his followers, Crazy Horse surrendered in May 1877. Just months later, on September 5, 1877, he was fatally bayoneted during an altercation at Fort Robinson, Nebraska. He remains a powerful symbol of resistance, freedom, and indigenous pride.

Daniel Boone (1734–1820) was an American frontiersman whose exploration of Kentucky made him one of the earliest U.S. folk heroes. He blazed the Wilderness Road through the Cumberland Gap in 1775, founded Boonesborough, and helped open the West to more than 200,000 settlers. Boone served as a militia officer during the Revolutionary War, was captured and adopted by the Shawnee before escaping, and later moved to Missouri, where he lived out his final years.

Genghis Khan is one of the giants of world history. Yet few know the exact details of what made this great military and political genius so famous. Now, Biography travels back to ancient Mongolia, China, and Persia to recount the life and conquests of Khan. With superb on-location footage and expert commentary, the legend of the illiterate peasant who unified the Mongol tribes into a ferocious fighting force is told as never before. Remembered mostly for his savage cruelty, Khan used his uncanny motivational powers to develop a vast empire across central Asia, bringing untold spoils to his domain.

He was rushed into action in the Civil War after graduating last in his class at West Point. He earned a permanent place in American folklore at the battle of the Little Big Horn. George Custer was never destined for greatness. That he achieved immortality is testament to his own bad luck and judgement more than anything else. This is a revealing examination on the ill-fated life of this notorious commander. Trace his exploits in the Civil War, where he became a brigadier general at the age of 23, fighting at Gettysburg and Bull Run. Discover how he petitioned for permission to fight for Mexico and follow him west where he enjoyed a moderately successful career as an Indian fighter. Finally, a point-by-point examination of the battle of Little Big Horn reveals how Custer led 264 men to death and secured a unique place in American history. Through rare photos, dramatic re-enactments and the commentary of leading historians, Biography explores the tragic life of George Custer.

Josef Goebbels, Nazi Minister of Propaganda, was one of the first public figures to recognize the value of mass entertainment to political propaganda. Using archive examples of the Nazi propagandist's film work, the program examines how Goebbels created the myth of Adolf Hitler, organized mass spectacles, and established a film studio to produce entertainment that furthered the Nazi cause and prepared the Germans for the Final Solution.

In classic novels like The Time Machine, The War of the Worlds and The Invisible Man, he practically invented science fiction. But those seminal works were just a small part of his life. H.G. Wells wrote over 160 books covering fields from fiction to history to political commentary. In his day he was one of the most famous and influential thinkers in the world. Through extensive use of his writings and interviews with leading scholars, Biography presents the complete story of H.G. Wells. Discover the startling range of predictions he made forecasting everything from chemical warfare and the atom bomb to computer chips and modern birth control! And see how his vision of the future darkened as he aged and the horrors of World War II threatened to put an end to his hopes for humanity. This is a revealing look at the life of "the man who invented tomorrow."

He is mythology's greatest and most celebrated hero, a towering figure whose name is synonymous with strength itself. The son of a mortal woman who was seduced by Zeus, Hercules was the mightiest of all humans. His celebrated 12 labors took him to the very ends of the earth and beyond as he fought fearsome creatures, battled injustice and defied even the gods themselves. Journey back to Ancient Greece to discover the origins of this epic hero. Probe the true meaning of his labors, and see how Hercules' divine power is balanced by very human frailty. Explore the complete story of the complex hero, from his crib where he killed two giant snakes sent by a jealous Hera to the funeral pyre that took him to his place among the immortals. Come along for one of the greatest adventures of all time the story of the mighty Hercules!

No one captures the American imagination quite like the Kingfish. We trace Huey Long's spectacular career from the 1920s, bursting out of Louisiana under the banner "Every man a king." Archival footage depicts the charismatic builder of roads, bridges, and schools, whose brutal corruption ended in a hail of bullets. Interviews tell the stories of the people swept up in Long's whirlwind, who still feel his impact on their lives.

Jack the Ripper is the pseudonym given to an unidentified serial killer who terrorized the Whitechapel district of London in 1888. The killer targeted female sex workers, cutting their throats and performing brutal abdominal mutilations that suggested a knowledge of human anatomy. The "canonical five" victims—Mary Ann Nichols, Annie Chapman, Elizabeth Stride, Catherine Eddowes, and Mary Jane Kelly—were murdered between August and November 1888. The name "Jack the Ripper" originated from the infamous "Dear Boss" letter sent to the Central News Agency during the hysteria, though its authenticity remains disputed. Despite intensive investigations by Scotland Yard, hundreds of interviews, and thousands of lines of inquiry, the killer's true identity was never discovered. Key historical suspects included Montague John Druitt, Aaron Kosminski, and Walter Sickert, but no conclusive evidence ever emerged. The case permanently reshaped crime reporting and modern forensic mythology.

He was one of America’s most notorious Depression-era bank robbers. Biography chronicles how John Dillinger escaped a quiet, rural upbringing in Indiana to mastermind multiple daring bank heists and elaborate jailbreaks. His high-profile crime spree ultimately embarrassed local law enforcement, drew the obsession of FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover, and earned him the inaugural title of the FBI's "Public Enemy Number One."

He was the most popular actor of his day. And with a single shot, he transformed the course of American history. John Wilkes Booth earned an infamous place in history as the man who assassinated President Abraham Lincoln. But Booth was much more than just a desperate devotee to the waning Confederate cause. In this in-depth program, follow Booth’s life from his pastoral childhood in Maryland to his rise to fame as a prominent actor. Discover how he became steadily more committed to the Confederate cause as the Civil War went on and how General Lee’s surrender left him feeling like “a man without a country”—ultimately prompting his fateful visit to Ford’s Theatre on April 14, 1865. Join Biography for a fascinating journey back to 19th-century America and a compelling look into the life of this most unusual assassin.

Lee Harvey Oswald was a former U.S. Marine who assassinated U.S. President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas. Oswald had a turbulent youth, joining the Marines before defecting to the Soviet Union in 1959. Disillusioned with Soviet life, he returned to the U.S. in 1962 with his Russian wife, Marina. He became an active supporter of Marxist causes, including the Fair Play for Cuba Committee. On the day of the assassination, Oswald fired three rifle shots from the Texas School Book Depository, fatally wounding JFK. Shortly after fleeing, he also shot and killed Dallas police officer J.D. Tippit. He was arrested hours later at the Texas Theatre. Two days later, on November 24, 1963, while being transferred through the Dallas Police Headquarters basement, Oswald was shot and killed by local nightclub owner Jack Ruby on live television. The Warren Commission later concluded that Oswald acted entirely alone.

The tale had been kept alive for generations but the intriguing story of Vinland seemed more legendary than true. But a landmark discovery rewrote the history of human exploration and showed he had indeed visited North America. Five hundred years before Christopher Columbus Leif Ericson and the Vikings sailed from Greenland to a new land sighted further west. For centuries their story was shrouded in mystery. But a remarkable discovery by archeologist Anne Ingstad uncovered the site of the legendary Vinland a Viking settlement in Newfoundland. BIOGRAPHY journeys to the Dark Ages to tell the story of one of the greatest explorers of all time and the extraordinary journey that made him a legend. Tour the site where Ericson set foot on the New World and learn what is known of his life from the world’s leading scholars. Set sail for history in this unique program which re-creates one of the most important journeys in human history and introduces the legendary explorer at its heart.

His was the angry voice of a people kept silent for centuries. And at the height of his power, his outspoken independence led to his assassination. Malcolm X was one of this century’s most charismatic leaders, a man so complex and influential that his name still stirs argument 30 years after his murder. Biography brings you his complete story, beginning with his childhood in the racist and segregated America of the Jazz Age, and his early years as the Harlem hoodlum “Detroit Red.” You’ll follow the future leader through his prison conversion and rise to prominence with the Nation of Islam, where he became a voice of hope for African-Americans. Interviews, photos and film footage reveal a life of continuous growth and change, a life cut short as greater possibilities seemed on the horizon.

Marco Polo had a strong case of wanderlust; when he set out from his Venetian home to explore the East, he did not return for 20 years. This video chronicles the travels of the legendary adventurer, who explored the exotic lands of the Middle and Far East. With readings from his famous book, The Travels of Marco Polo, written while imprisoned at the end of the 13th century, the adventurer's quest to see the world unfolds. His accounts, such as his stay in the court of the Emperor Kublai Khan in Mongolia, fired the imagination of Europeans, and inspired the poetry of the English author Samuel Taylor Coleridge. The film shows why no world traveler has been more influential than the intrepid Marco Polo.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was an extraordinarily influential Austrian composer of the Classical era. Born in Salzburg, he displayed prodigious musical talents at a remarkably early age, playing the keyboard and violin and composing his first pieces by age five. Guided by his father Leopold, young Mozart toured Europe as a child prodigy, performing for royalty. As an adult, he relocated to Vienna as a freelance performer and composer. Despite facing financial instability and volatile public favor, his creative output was staggering. Mozart composed over 600 works, profoundly shaping symphonic, operatic, chamber, piano, and choral music. His timeless masterpieces include the operas The Marriage of Figaro, Don Giovanni, and The Magic Flute, alongside his monumental Symphony No. 41 ("Jupiter"). Mozart fell gravely ill and died at age 35, leaving his famous Requiem unfinished. He remains an enduring archetype of musical genius.

Nostradamus (born Michel de Nostredame) was a prominent French astrologer, physician, and reputed seer of the Renaissance. Educated in medicine at the University of Montpellier, he initially gained acclaim for treating plague victims across southern France. However, he is best remembered for his 1555 book Les Prophéties, a collection of 942 poetic quatrains. Written in a cryptic blend of French, Greek, Latin, and Italian, these verses were intended to predict future global disasters, wars, and cosmic events. His cryptic style attracted royal patronage, notably from French Queen Catherine de' Medici, who appointed him Counselor and Physician-in-Ordinary to King Charles IX. Though modern skeptics view his writings as vague metaphors easily reinterpreted after historical events occur, popular culture frequently credits him with predicting the Great Fire of London, the rise of Adolf Hitler, and the 9/11 attacks.

He is remembered for seven words: "Give me liberty of give me death." More than any other founding father he represented the power of the ordinary citizens of the new nation. Patrick Henry rose from simple roots to mingle with the colonial aristocracy, helping blaze the trail to freedom alongside Jefferson and Washington. While others led men through the influence of position, wealth, and education, Henry staked his claim on the power of his voice. He was, without a doubt, the greatest orator of his age. Biography tells his story through expert commentary, period accounts and artifacts, and revealing excerpts from Henry's speeches and writings. Discover how the speaker balanced his rhetoric with a keen political sense, and how he never wavered in his defense of individual liberty, fearing that the Constitution paved the way for domination by a central government. Fiery, outspoken, yet personally prudent, he was the first voice of the American people, the pied piper of liberty.

He was one of the first and most famous of a breed of men who would carve out an empire in the New World. His name is forever linked to the futile search for the Fountain of Youth. Ponce de León is remembered for his misguided quest, but the first Conquistador deserves better. Biography travels back in time to stand with the Spanish adventurer on the edge of the New World. Contemporary historians and period accounts bring his remarkable accomplishments to life he sailed with Columbus, discovered Florida and was the first governor of Puerto Rico. He was also extremely successful at laying waste to the existing cultures and planting the seeds of the colonization that followed. Leading experts examine his motivations in the context of the time and culture he lived in, and dramatic re-enactments relive his stirring adventures. Soldier, adventurer and explorer, this is the complete story of the man who chased one of humanity's most elusive dreams and left an indelible mark on the New World.

He first appeared in 1887. His stories have enthralled millions of people ever since. Sherlock Holmes is among the most enduring fictional creations of all time. With his piercing observations, razor-sharp logic and human weakness, the eccentric sleuth is one of the rare characters to take on a life of his own even today, thousands of letters a year arrive at 221B Baker Street asking for his help. Biography journeys to Victorian England to trace his origins and search for clues to his lasting appeal. Learn how Jack the Ripper's 1888 spree coincided with the first Holmes story becoming a bestseller, prompting Conan Doyle to observe, crime may not pay, but it certainly sells. From his most famous cases to his passion for the violin and weakness for recreational drugs, every aspect of Holmes's character and career is examined. Join Biography for the mysterious case of Sherlock Holmes, the eccentric Englishman from another age who has become one of the most beloved characters in the world.

One of the last great leaders of the Native American Resistance, Sitting Bull earned his place in history with his stunning victory in the Battle at Little Bighorn-but his life encompassed much more than one battle. Biography journeys back to the fading days of the Old West for a comprehensive history of the Sioux medicine man. Hear period accounts that narrate his many battles with early settlers and learn how he revised the Native American strategy and created more effective fighters. Discover how he masterminded the victory at Custer's Last Stand and trace the tragic last days of his life, from his position in Buffalo Bill's "Wild West Show" to his captivity and death. Sitting Bull: Chief of the Lakota Nation presents a moving and remarkable portrait of one of the last great Native American warriors.

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The program dives deep into the patriarch's ruthless pursuit of wealth, his five failed marriages, and the strained, cold relationships he maintained with his children. A central focus of the feature is the notorious 1973 international spectacle surrounding the kidnapping of his 16-year-old grandson, J. Paul Getty III, in Rome. The biography highlights the oil tycoon’s initial, cold calculation to refuse the ransom payment, the tragic mutilation of the boy by Italian gangsters, and the dark, cascading aftermath of substance abuse and alienation that plagued the family heirs for generations to come

They were disenchanted rebel soldiers who turned to a life of crime. Their exploits earned them a place in American folklore. The James Gang was the most notorious band of outlaws in the Old West. Led by the storied Jesse James, they embarked on an amazing series of bank and train robberies that made them the most wanted criminals in the nation. Biography tells the complete story of the legendary gang through archival photos and expert testimony. Relive their most famous robberies and see how the reward on Jesse James' head eventually became too much to resist for a member of his gang. Learn of the amazing saga of Frank James after he turned himself in, and follow the evolution of the legend of Jesse James in the years since his death. The James Gang is an unflinching look at the most notorious criminals of the Old West.

Manfred von Richthofen, the legendary German World War I fighter ace credited with 80 confirmed aerial victories. Rare historical combat footage of Manfred von Richthofen and his flying unit in action, alongside coverage of his final mission, death over France in April 1918, and his solemn military funeral conducted by British forces. Includes commentary and insights from aviation historians and figures such as Dan-San Abbott, Javier Arango, Oswald Boelcke, and Walter Boyne.

They were arguably the most powerful family in America. But the dynasty dissolved in a frenzy of excess, backbiting and sexual indiscretions. The Vanderbilts were a gossip columnist's dream. Their saga was a magnificent tapestry of honor, greed and scandal, and, of course, wealth. Biography traces their stunning story, from the genius of the "Commodore" to the custody battle over little Gloria. Discover how Cornelius first built a fortune in shipping before turning his attention to railroads. Relive his legendary battles with rival John Jay Gould. Trace the scandals that scarred the family image, and learn of their enormous contributions to charity that could never overcome the doings that dominated the gossip page. And biographers and rare footage highlight the defining moments in the history of the dynasty. Join Biography for the story of the Vanderbilts, a sweeping saga more powerful than those found in today's tabloids.

Theodore Roosevelt was the 26th President of the United States, a visionary statesman, naturalist, and soldier. Overcoming severe childhood asthma, he championed a life of "strenuous endeavor." He gained national fame during the Spanish-American War leading the "Rough Riders" cavalry unit. Following the 1901 assassination of William McKinley, Roosevelt took office at age 42, becoming the youngest president in U.S. history. His domestic agenda, the "Square Deal," focused on consumer protection, antitrust regulations, and busting corporate monopolies. A passionate conservationist, he established the U.S. Forest Service and protected 230 million acres of public land. Abroad, he initiated construction of the Panama Canal and won the 1906 Nobel Peace Prize for mediating the Russo-Japanese War. He survived an assassination attempt in 1912 while running under his "Bull Moose" party. He remains a symbol of American vigor.

Thomas Jefferson was an American statesman, diplomat, lawyer, architect, philosopher, and the third President of the United States (1801–1809). As a brilliant political philosopher, Jefferson was chosen as the principal author of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, establishing the foundational American ideals of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. During his presidency, he orchestrated the Louisiana Purchase of 1803, doubling the size of the nation, and subsequently commissioned the Lewis and Clark Expedition to explore the western territory. Jefferson was a true polymath who founded the University of Virginia and designed his neoclassical plantation home, Monticello. However, his historical legacy remains deeply complex; while he eloquently championed human liberty and universal equality, he enslaved over 600 people throughout his lifetime. He died on July 4, 1826, exactly 50 years after the adoption of the Declaration.

Over 20 women lent their voices to the Japanese propaganda effort in WWII. Though there was never a program or a character by that name, they collectively came to be called Tokyo Rose. Iva Toguri was a recent college graduate touring Japan when war broke out. Unable to return to America, she was forced to find employment using her only marketable skill English. She soon found herself behind a microphone, broadcasting messages of hate and despair to her countrymen. This remarkable program traces Iva's experiences during and after the war. It's a story of bad luck and discrimination. Despite being forced to do the broadcasts, she was tried and convicted of treason in 1949 and spent 7 years in jail. In an interview, Toguri talks about her long fight to clear her name. President Ford pardoned her in 1977. Biography presents the true story of a woman caught up in forces beyond her control, and her struggle to escape her role in history as one of the voices behind the legend of Tokyo Rose.

Step back into the American Old West with Biography: Wild Bill Hickok: Gentleman of the Old West. This compelling documentary delves into the life of one of history's most iconic figures, James Butler "Wild Bill" Hickok. Explore the legendary lawman, gunfighter, and showman whose exploits became synonymous with the frontier era, from his days as a scout and gambler to his untimely demise. This program offers a fascinating look at the historical context and personal story behind the myth.

Yitzhak Rabin was an Israeli politician, statesman, and general who twice served as Prime Minister of Israel (1974–1977 and 1992–1995). Rabin began his career in the Haganah and later rose to become Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces, leading Israel to victory in the 1967 Six-Day War. Transitioning to politics, he joined the Labor Party and was appointed Prime Minister in 1974, steering the nation through post-Yom Kippur War economic recovery. During his second term, Rabin shifted from a military hawk to a champion for peace. He signed the historic Oslo Accords in 1993 alongside PLO Chairman Yasser Arafat, establishing a framework for Palestinian self-governance. For these efforts, Rabin, Arafat, and Shimon Peres were awarded the 1994 Nobel Peace Prize. On November 4, 1995, following a mass peace rally in Tel Aviv, Rabin was assassinated by Yigal Amir, a right-wing Jewish extremist opposed to the peace process.