Episode 1
Power and Empire: The Great Arteries
One of the great advances of the 19th Century, the railways were a tool of empire. How did the Victorians use them to expand their influence?
Where to watch How Trains Changed the World
TV series
How Trains Changed the World
20181 season8.0 / 10
The invention of trains transformed everything about how humans lived. From the movement of goods and population, the design of cities, to conquest and warfare, there are few aspects of civilization that were left untouched by these machines.
Availability
Not streaming in United States
Checked Jul 22, 2026
How Trains Changed the World premiered November 26, 2018. We don't have a confirmed streaming, rental or purchase option yet.
Synopsis
The invention of trains transformed everything about how humans lived. From the movement of goods and population, the design of cities, to conquest and warfare, there are few aspects of civilization that were left untouched by these machines.
Season 1 episodes
Choose an episode, then use the watch options above for the show.
Episode 2
The Great Workhorses: Trains That Move Loads
From the Channel Tunnel to carrying iron ore in the Australian Outback, experts discuss the history and the future of freight trains.
Where to watch How Trains Changed the World
Episode 3
Express Trains That Link Cities
Intended as an efficient, economical way of moving freight, the emergence of express trains revolutionised society with the demand for fast travel.
Where to watch How Trains Changed the World
Episode 4
The Commute: Trains That Make Cities
The world's 10 busiest metro systems carry more than 22 billion passengers every year. How has the train shaped cities - and changed the world?
Where to watch How Trains Changed the World
Episode 5
Trains and War: Weapons and Logistics
As weapons and transport, trains transformed the battlefield - from huge railway guns and hospital trains to those taking victims to death camps.
Where to watch How Trains Changed the World
Episode 6
The Love of Trains: Power, Prestige and Romance
finale
Trains have changed the way people see the world - and each other. What is it that makes them so special?
Where to watch How Trains Changed the WorldEpisode information updated Jul 25, 2026
Available now in United States
What to watch instead
These shows are available now and closely match How Trains Changed the World.
Available nowHell on Wheels
Shared themes
Available nowEli Roth's History of Horror
Similar story and audience
Available nowMind Field
Similar story and audience
Available nowHistory 101
Similar story and audience
Available nowPrehistoric Planet
Similar story and audience
Available nowThe Reluctant Traveller with Eugene Levy
Similar story and audience
More about How Trains Changed the World
Cast
Kevin Spink