Inside PBS Blog

As human civilization has evolved, so have its weapons - from arrowheads carved from stone, to nuclear missiles and biowarfare. This week PBS provides insight into the art, history, and effects of weaponry throughout the ages.

• The Samurai sword, with its curved profile and sharp blade, is as legendary as the elite martial arts warriors who use it. In “Secrets of the Samurai Sword,” NOVA explores the art and science behind the Samurai’s trademark tool. The program airs on July 7th at 8 pm ET (check local listings).

• The broadcast premiere of Time Team America  takes you back to when the first English settlers in America used rudimentary guns and knives in their attempt to survive the untamed wilderness of Roanoke Island. Watch our crack team of archeologists literally dig into history at Fort Raleigh, the settlers' compound on the island,  on July 8th at 8 pm ET (check local listings), and check out a special preview episode on PBS Video.

• What happens when weapons get into the wrong hands? Wide Angle this week brings you the story of a twelve-year-old Palestinian boy killed by Israeli soldiers who mistook his toy gun for a real one. Witness the aftershocks of the incident in “Heart of Jenin,” airing July 8th at 10pm (check local listings).

What do weapons reveal about the cultures in which they’re used?

Related posts:

New Series "Time Team America" Premieres Online

Ask FRONTLINE/World Producer Charlotte Buchen