
From the flashes of genius to the hard-won discoveries after many years of trial and error, this enlightening series explores the stories behind many of the inventions we take for granted today.

Richard Lintern
self
1. Shock and Awe
A look at four inventions that shocked the world. Ouija, a game that claims to talk to the dead, Dynamite, an explosive invented to save lives, the electric chair and the rollercoaster.
2. The Vision Thing
Meet a young farm worker whose electric idea keeps us entertained, an astronomer who wants to see the birth of stars and an attorney whose copier terrifies governments.
3. Criminal Riches
A look at expensive innovations within the world of crime, including an alarm that keeps the crooks at bay, a device that revolutionises retail and a gun loved by bad guys.
4. Danger Magnets
5. Need for Speed
6. Life and Death
7. Guns and Goldmines
8. The Little Guy