Social Studies

Between the fall of Rome and the European voyages of discovery, few events were more significant than the rise of Islam. Within a few centuries, the Islamic empires blossomed, projecting their power from Africa to the East Indies, and from Spain to India.

Two thousand years ago, in the Roman province of Judea, Jesus was crucified by imperial troops. Thousands before him had suffered the same fate. But unlike his predecessors on the cross, Jesus did not disappear from history. Instead, his memory was kept alive by a small band of Jews—men and women who held fast to their conviction that Jesus was the Messiah.

Nearly 3000 years ago, a tiny group of tribes in the land of Canaan gave birth to a nation and a religion—a religion that would dare to redefine humanity's relationship with God. KINGDOM OF DAVID: THE SAGA OF THE ISRAELITES tells the epic story of the Israelites and the creation of the world's first and most profoundly influential, monotheistic religion.

Islam is one of the great monolithic world religions practiced today. Discover the Islamic culture through the daily life and rituals of Muslims around the world.

Narrated by Academy Award winner, Ben Kingsley, Religions of the World offers insight into the striking similarities and vast differences among the world's major religions as well as the unique perspective of its many individual cultures.

One of the world's oldest surviving religions, Judaism is both a theology and a way of life for over 12 million followers in the world today. The first religion to be founded upon the principle of monotheism, Judaism has survived despite persecution against its people throughout the ages.

Narrated by Academy Award winner, Ben Kingsley, Religions of the World offers insight into the striking similarities and vast differences among the world's major religions as well as the unique perspective of its many individual cultures.

See how the political, religious and social events of 16th-century Europe changed the course of history. Examine the context in which these factors sparked the birth of Protestant Christianity. Led by Martin Luther, this spiritual revolution gained momentum and, under the helm of other Protestant leaders, thrived and grew into new factions in Europe and North America.

From the public ministry of Jesus to the legendary battles of the Crusades, examine the interwoven histories of these two distinct branches of Christianity. Although its followers were long persecuted by the Roman Empire, Christianity spread throughout the Mediterranean region and eventually became the favored religion of the Empire, following the ascension of Constantine to the Roman throne.

Explores the causes and consequences of World War I. Featuring four live-action segments, the program explores a history of Czarist Russia and the birth of Communism in Russia, as well as the life on World War I battlefields and the story of the Red Baron. Rise of Nationalism explores the rise of nationalism in the early 20th century, specifically oppression in Czarist Russia.

Examines natural disasters throughout history, highlighting how some disasters have led to important developments for future generations. Discusses the Potato Famine and the resulting wave of immigration to the U.S. Also looks at how the Bubonic Plague contributed to the end of feudalism in Europe.

"Global Issues for Students" provides an in-depth analysis of current world problems. We have entered a new era of globalization - a level of interconnection unprecedented in world history.

"Global Issues for Students" provides an in-depth analysis of current world problems. We have entered a new era of globalization - a level of interconnection unprecedented in world history.