Watch Forensic History: Crimes, Frauds, and Scandals

Forensic History: Crimes, Frauds, and Scandals from The Great Courses Signature Collection is an engaging and informative series that explores some of the most fascinating and notorious cases in history. Presented by Elizabeth A. Murray, a renowned historian and professor of law, this course takes viewers on a journey through the history of forensic science, unraveling the mysteries of past crimes and scandals using cutting-edge investigation techniques.

The series explores a wide range of cases, from Renaissance Italy to modern-day America, each with its own unique set of characters, motivations, and outcomes. Throughout the course, Professor Murray delves into the science behind forensic investigation, including ballistics, DNA analysis, and fingerprinting, explaining how these techniques have been used to solve some of history's most puzzling crimes.

In the first module, "The Origins of Forensic Science," Professor Murray traces the history of forensic investigation from its earliest roots in medieval Europe to its modern-day applications in criminal investigations. She covers the influence of pioneers such as Alphonse Bertillon and Edmond Locard, who developed innovative techniques for identifying criminals and analyzing crime scenes.

Throughout the course, Professor Murray examines both well-known cases and more obscure ones, providing a deep-dive into the facts and circumstances surrounding each crime. For example, in the second module, "The Murder of King Tut," she explores the death of the Egyptian pharaoh and the scientific investigation that led to the discovery of his remains. Similarly, in the third module, "The Black Dahlia," she investigates the brutal murder of aspiring actress Elizabeth Short in 1947 Los Angeles, a case that remains unsolved to this day.

Other notable cases covered in the course include the Lizzie Borden murders, the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, and the Watergate scandal. Professor Murray presents each case with a compelling narrative, drawing on primary sources and historical records to provide a meticulous and detailed analysis of the events that unfolded.

One significant aspect of the series is the focus on the social and cultural context in which each crime occurred. Professor Murray does an excellent job of placing each case within the broader historical context, exploring the social and political factors at play during each era. For example, in the fourth module, "The Scopes Monkey Trial," she examines the landmark legal case that pitted science against religion in early twentieth-century America, revealing the deep tensions and conflicts of the era.

Overall, Forensic History: Crimes, Frauds, and Scandals from The Great Courses Signature Collection is an informative and engaging series that will appeal to anyone with an interest in crime history or forensic science. Professor Murray is a skilled presenter, and her passion for the subject matter comes through in each episode. The series is meticulously researched and thoughtfully presented, providing viewers with a deep understanding of the science and history of forensic investigation. A must-watch for true crime enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Forensic History: Crimes, Frauds, and Scandals is a series that ran for 1 seasons (24 episodes) between December 15, 2014 and on The Great Courses Signature Collection