When STAR WARS debuted in May 1977, it gave rise to a pop-cultural phenomenon unlike any the world had ever seen. The movie was so singular and iconic, and so technically ambitious -- that it almost never came to be.
To bring Star Wars to the screen, new technology had to be invented and existing technology had to be utilized in ways never before imagined. ... Show More
Jun 2019
The Birth Control Pill | But Can It Be Done? | S16-E1
<p>When Margaret Sanger opened her birth control clinic in 1916, she knew she was breaking the law. Distributing contraceptives, or even literature about birth control, was a jailable offense. But she didn’t care. As a nurse, Sanger had sworn to devote herself to the welfare of t ... Show More
40m 56s
Jul 2019
Innovation Fails: DeLorean | Driven to Succeed | S17-E1
<p>Normally on American Innovations, we look at the history of the science and technology that transformed the world we live in. These stories teach us about the vision, grit, competition, and teamwork required to conquer new frontiers and forge new pathways to the future. But eq ... Show More
40m 24s
Aug 2019
The Heimlich Maneuver | S18-E1
<p>In the 1960s, choking was a national epidemic. In the United States alone, close to 4,000 people were dying from choking every year. Lobster, ham, and hamburger were common culprits. But steak was by far the greatest offender. </p><p>Coroners called for a solution to ... Show More
43m 45s
Dec 2023
The Star Wars Holiday Special that Luke Skywalker Hates ft. Adam Pally and Betsy Sodaro | 15
<p>Back in 1978, George Lucas and CBS created a Star Wars holiday special so staggeringly bad, Lucas has publicly stated he wants it destroyed. The variety show featured Carrie Fisher singing, Wookiee porn, and many, many things that should never be associated with Star Wars. Bud ... Show More
37m 39s
Dec 2023
Selects: Star Wars Holiday Spectacular
Long ago, in a galaxy not so far away, George Lucas allowed the Star Wars Holiday Special to be made. What happened on the night of November 17, 1978 can never be fully explained, but we make our best effort in our annual special edition of SYSK. May the force be with us all.See ... Show More
54m 20s