History Channel

"Millions of people around the world believe we have been visited in the past by extraterrestrial beings. What if it were true? Did ancient aliens really help to shape our history? And if so, what if there were clues left behind, something hiding in plain sight? What if we could find that evidence?"

Ever since Eric von Daniken released his speculative book and its subsequent 1970 film Chariots of the Gods, there has been an entire field of study created around something commonly called Ancient Astronaut Theory. The idea is that extraterrestrials have visited many of our ancient civilizations. The theory continues that these visitors had a hand in shaping our development, whether it be through technology or even manipulation of our very DNA. These believers point to a world of evidence to support their claims. There are tons of images from earlier civilizations that could certainly be interpreted as depicting modern devices, concepts, or even space men. There is plenty of speculation that some of the knowledge and accomplishments of these peoples could not have been possible without some outside interference. There are even those who believe that aliens best explain our religious beliefs and that God himself was/is an extraterrestrial being. Whatever your own beliefs on the subject, there are certainly some fascinating points to be made. There is no question that the speculations and observations bring up some interesting queries that deserve our attention. This series attempts to document much of this evidence and the beliefs these findings have inspired.

Ever since the second National Treasure film came out, there has been speculation that there might really be a Book Of Secrets that is passed down from president to president, perhaps since Washington himself. It is true that each president does traditionally leave a sealed note to his predecessor on the desk in the Oval Office. Still, there is no documentation that a special book exists, but then again there hardly would be, would there?

If you are expecting this special to talk about the existence of such a book, you are in for a disappointment. In fact, the title is quite misleading and obviously intended to take advantage of the film buzz. Instead, this special talks about the kinds of things that might/would be in such a book, if it existed. The show really talks about the office of the presidency and some of the traditions and precautions that are taken for the holder of the office. There's a lot of talk about the security details made for the office. You get a look at the "football", which is the briefcase that follows the president everywhere he goes. It contains emergency protocols and the launch codes for our nuclear arsenal. The episode explores secret societies like the Masons and Skull & Bones which have produced a large number of presidents as well as other powerful positions.