Legendary Leaders

Examine the invasion of nomadic warriors that overwhelmed the Ottoman Empire.

She ruled over men and led one of the world's greatest civilizations. So why was Cleopatra the last of the Egyptian pharaohs? Josh Bernstein joins Zahi Hawass on a hunt for clues to learn more about Cleopatra.

Chin Shi Huang Di, ruler of the Qin Kingdom, rose to power, defeated six states and created an empire that would lay the groundwork for modern day China. Explore the life and times of Chin Shi Huang Di, and see what still remains of the Qin Dynasty today--from the Great Wall of China to the army of 8,000 life-sized terracotta warriors and horses that guard his empire in the afterlife.

Chin Shi Huang Di, ruler of the Qin Kingdom, rose to power, defeated six states and created an empire that would lay the groundwork for modern day China.

When her husband dies, Boudicca becomes Queen of the Iceni. Roman administrators try to control the Iceni by appropriating their land and disarming the tribe, but Boudicca raises a mighty army and takes the fight to the Romans.

During his 67 year reign, Ramses II built some of the most ambitious monuments and structures in history. Cutting-edge technology recreates the true scale of his vision.

Julius Caesar is butchering is way through Gaul. The Romans complete their long quest for total Mediterranean dominance, defeating the Gauls in the final battle of the Gallic Wars.

Queen Nefertiti, once the most beautiful and powerful woman in Egypt, vanished without a trace. Host Josh Bernstein is determined to uncover the true story of Queen Nefertiti. Who was this mysterious woman?

Hannibal's merciless attacks on Roman soil dealt a near-fatal blow to the soon-to-be Empire. Sworn by his father to a blood oath against the Romans, Hannibal of Carthage does the unthinkable.

Hatshepsut took the title of Pharaoh when acting as her stepson's regent. Statues of her as bearded king and her unique tomb reveal vast power, but rivals vowed to erase her from history.