Modern transport and communications resulted in a world that is wealthier, healthier, more mobile, and better informed than ever before. This documentary examines how trade and transportation networks gradually increased our connectivity throughout world history. Roman roads led to economic growth and the spread of Christianity. The Silk Road transported luxury goods from China to the West, but also brought the Black Death to Europe. Spanish conquistadors...

April 1453. The Ottomans, led by Sultan Mehmed II, lay siege to the city of Constantinople. They intend to seize the city and unify their Sultanate, which was cut into two by the Byzantine Empire. In the defense of his capital, Byzantine Emperor Constantine XI can count upon his citizens, and also upon Genoese and Venetian soldiers. The reinforcements expected by the Byzantines are late in arriving, but the besieged city holds firm under the command...