How Earth Made Us

How Earth Made Us is an engaging and visually striking BBC Two documentary series that endeavors to investigate the profound influence of the earth's natural forces on human civilization. Originally aired in 2010, this series is helmed by renowned geologist Iain Stewart, who uses his expertise to tell nothing less than the story of how the world, with its wondrous geology and climatology, has shaped the course of human history.

The series consists of five hour-long episodes, each of which illuminates a different aspect of the earth's influence on human civilization. Over the course of the series, viewers are given an in-depth look into the powerful interplay between natural forces and human evolution, which leads to a significantly deeper understanding of how much our lives are sculpted by, and reliant upon, the natural world.

Not only does Iain Stewart guide us through the grand narrative of human history but he also examines specific instances where the earth's geology has had a significant impact. This includes examinations on the influence of deep earth, the wind, fire, water, and climate. Combining this approach with visually captivating imagery and striking shots of some of the most prominent natural and man-made wonders globally, the series becomes a must-watch for any environmentally conscious viewer or for those interested in the correlation between human civilization and earth.

In the first episode, "Deep Earth," Stewart illustrates how the making of the world inside the earth has immensely influenced mankind's progress. "Water's" significant role is painstakingly elucidated in episode two, where Stewart talks about how our largest civilizations shaped around rivers and seas and why the exploration for water has been a crucial aspect of human progression over time.

In the episode titled "The Wind," the show investigates how wind has been an essential aspect of trade, exploration, and agriculture, with regions harnessing the power of the wind to power their increasing prospects. Our planet's inner fire is connected to the greatest geological events and how they have impacted human history in the “Fire” episode. In the final episode, focusing on the "Climate," the program touches on defining historical moments that are connected to climatic phenomena, exploring how weather has shaped and determined the destiny of entire societies.

By following Stewart's compelling storytelling and cheerful enthusiasm throughout the series, you feel as if you’re receiving lessons about the earth directly from a friend rather than a college professor. Stewart displays an ability to explain complex scientific concepts in simple, relatable terms, helping audiences to comprehend such large-scale ideas without being overwhelmed.

Beautifully shot and enthused with the unique humanistic perspective that only a seasoned scholar and presenter like Stewart could offer, "How Earth Made Us" provides a broad sweep of history told through the lens of geology. It unravels the intrinsic bond between human civilization and the natural world without shying away from the harsh realities of its implications.

"How Earth Made Us" can be viewed as educational, but it does not feel like a lecture. Instead, it is more of a captivating narrative that draws in viewers with its engaging and dynamic storytelling style. Going beyond the mere presentation of facts, Stewart forges emotional connections with the people and places he visits, reminding viewers of the interconnectedness of all life on earth.

The series is as much a travelogue as a geological investigation, with Stewart journeying to the farthest corners of the earth. He visits places as disparate as the freezing wastes of Iceland, the sweltering temples of ancient Egypt, and the bustling streets of modern China to uncover stories of how the earth shaped human history.

Moreover, the series effectively incorporates cutting-edge visual animations and graphics to illustrate geological processes, which helps to demonstrate these often invisible facets of our planet. The stunning visuals, combined with Stewart's compelling narrative, result in a deeply influential and educational series.

"How Earth Made Us" serves as a timely reminder of our place in the bigger scheme of things and underscores how truly reliant we are upon our earth. It's a series that both enlightens and humbles, urging us to consider the past as we move into the future. With its focus on the intersection of natural science and human history, it is a series that truly fascinates, educates and entertains its viewers.