Learn how robots were first conceptualized in ancient Rome and see how their use has evolved over the centuries, from the calculator to the Roomba. Then, take a sneak peek at what future robots will be able to do.

Originally released by PBS, 2019. Streaming video file encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on June 18, 2019.

Introduction: The Robot (2:00); --Automats (7:13); -- Crisis and Collaboration (10:44); -- Universal Computer (4:07); -- Imitation Game (6:24); -- Animal Mimicry (4:15); -- Technology for Complicated Tasks (4:27); -- Current Practical Applications (3:06); -- Torque and Dexterity (4:47); -- Artificial Intelligence (5:11); -- Credits: The Robot (0:29); .