Endless Fascination: Exploring TV Series and Their Intriguing Connections
When it comes to TV series that leave a lasting impression, the favorites of many fans often revolve around intriguing universes, rich stories, and fascinating connections. In this article, we will dive into two franchises that can captivate viewers for hours, and explore a unique BBC show that will amaze you with its insights into connections and progress.
Franchises that Entertain and Inspire
Two franchises continue to top my list for hours of discussion: the Star Trek universe, including movies (excluding the newer Discovery view) and the multiple shows associated with it, and the Stargate series. Both series offer a rich tapestry of stories and characters that can engage and inspire. The Star Trek franchise has a long and storied history, but I particularly enjoy where they have taken the Stargate storylines with its unique blend of adventure and exploration.
For those who enjoy classic TV series, there are several options to consider. MASH, The Sopranos, and WKRP in Cincinnati all offer a wealth of dialogue, plot twists, and character development. Don’t forget about Buffy the Vampire Slayer or Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (DS9) for those who prefer a more futuristic and exciting take on series.
A Unique BBC Series: Connections (1988)
Connections by the BBC is a one-year series that aired with ten episodes in 1988. It gained popularity and even prompted a second year, although the third year wasn’t as well-received. This series stands out for its engaging narration by John Burke, who serves as a knowledgeable and interesting guide for viewers.
At its core, Connections revolves around a single theme: how different elements and concepts are interconnected throughout history. The show explores topics such as radar, electricity, supermarkets, airplanes, books, television, automobiles, computers, and much more. Each episode delves into the origins and development of these elements, revealing fascinating connections and narrating the historical progression with a unique twist.
Stunning Examples from the Show
It’s easy to believe that a show about connections could be dry, but Connections is anything but. Here are two summarized examples to illustrate why the show is so captivating:
Mercedes and the Industrial Revolution:
During the Industrial Revolution, Britain’s education system focused on gentlemanly pursuits, while Germany’s education system was more practical and profit-driven. Meanwhile, coal byproducts were seen as a nuisance. Germany developed dyes from these byproducts thanks to its more practical educational approach. The development of perfume through these same dyes led to the creation of a new form of perfume dispenser. German inventor Karl Benz observed this dispenser and later used the principle to invent the first motorcycle. His daughter, Mercedes, gave him the name for his new invention, thus bridging radar, electricity, and the first car, demonstrating the interconnectedness of seemingly unrelated inventions and concepts.
The Industrialization of Rugs and Punch Cards:
A British man brought back intricate Indian rugs and fabrics from his time in India. He attempted to replicate this in England but lacked the skilled labor to do so. A device that automated playing the piano inspired a new method of weaving the rugs. Later, this concept was applied to a brother’s work at Ellis Island, where he used punch cards to automate the processing of immigrant records. This invention directly led to the development of early computers, showcasing the connections between music, textiles, immigration, and technology development.
Favorite Episode: Computers and Industrious Ingenuity
My favorite episode in the series is about computers. The episode delves into how the British colonization of India led to the export of intricate rugs, which required skillful labor. An English inventor, inspired by the mechanism of a piano, devised a system for mechanically weaving these rugs. This innovation led to the industrialization of rug production and, more surprisingly, the invention of punch cards. Punch cards later influenced the development of early computers, symbolizing the connection between a musical instrument, handcrafts, and the dawn of modern computing.
The episode also covers how immigrants at Ellis Island were processed using novel methods, which led to the development of punch cards. This, in turn, influenced the early development of computer algorithms and industrial processes, highlighting the interconnected nature of historical events and technological progress.
Amusing and Educational
Connections is remarkable in its ability to make history and technology interesting and engaging. The show takes viewers on a journey through time, connecting disparate concepts and inventions. It’s a tribute to the ingenuity of humankind and the surprising ways in which historical events can influence technological advancements.
Final Thoughts
From the Star Trek universe to television classics like MASH and The Sopranos, there’s a wealth of content to explore and discuss. Connections stands out for its unique way of illustrating how different fields and historical events are interrelated, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in technology, history, and the fascinating connections that shape our world.