Many people know that China is the birthplace of fireworks — but did you know that their use dates back more than 1000 years — to the Tang and Song dynasties? Today, fireworks light up the skies for all kinds of celebrations — holidays, baseball games, even weddings. Our Host James Chau looks back at the history of fireworks, and tells the story of their evolution and place in global culture.

A few months back, flooding struck Henan, China, and as much as 8 inches of rain fell in a single hour. Cutting-edge technology was deployed along with first responders to help mitigate the problems — drones. Our Host James Chau dives into how new tech has changed the outcomes of difficult moments.

In the 1800s, China was a mix of rebellion, monarchy, and commerce. John Thomson, a prolific Scottish traveler and photographer, ventured into Asia and documented the changes he witnessed in person. In time for the centenary of his birth, an exhibition on Thomson has returned to Scotland. Our Host James Chau looks at his legacy and the works that illuminated early understandings of China — its culture, architecture, and people.