Michael examines how railways have shaped the world economy. He recalls how the first tracks were laid to shift coal and iron ore, using animals or winches, long before locomotives were invented less than 200 years ago and marvels at how railways have today become a critical part of global infrastructure.

Michael explores how railways have contributed to the creation of countries, linking people across deserts and mountains and binding together different ethnicities and religions.

Michael explores how railways enabled the dissemination of cultural, social, religious and political ideas.