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The Best Episodes of Biography Season 20

Every episode of Biography Season 20 ranked from best to worst. Discover the Best Episodes of Biography Season 20!

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Biography is a documentary television series. It was originally a half-hour filmed series produced for CBS by David Wolper from 1961 to 1964 and hosted by Mike Wallace. The A&E Network later re-ran it and

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Episode Rankings

  1. #1 Fan Favorite
    Biography Season 20 Episode 8 - J. Pierpont Morgan: Emperor of Wall Street
    7.0/10(14 votes)

    S20:E8

    He single-handedly saved the U.S. from bankruptcy on two occasions but was often accused of being a monopolist. He wielded as much power as the president and turned Wall Street into his personal playground. John Pierpont Morgan had an aptitude for acquisition. He assembled one of America's largest fortunes and purchased an art collection to rival any in the world. Biography narrates the compelling story of this celebrated dealmaker and money-magnate. See rare footage of the financier on Wall Street and trace his rise to power and prominence through interviews with biographers and historians. Hear stories of idiosyncratic brokerages and take a privileged glimpse into Morgan's private life. From his rise to power to his legendary battles with Theodore Roosevelt Biography presents the riveting story of J. Pierpont Morgan one of the most successful men of the 20th century.

    Director:Unknown
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  2. Biography Season 20 Episode 40 - George Washington: American Revolutionary
    6.0/10(96 votes)

    S20:E40

    A man of passion, intensity, and purpose, George Washington remains one of the most celebrated men in American history. Our glorified image of Washington, however, reveals little about the actual man. America's first president was not a myth or deity, but a human being with ambitions, desires, and even shortcomings. George Washington: American Revolutionary offers a penetrating portrait of the man behind the legend, uncovering a person who sought admiration, respect, and a permanent place in history. Experts discuss Washington's childhood and upbringing, his concerns about his reputation, and his feelings of inferiority while at the same time tracing his famed military and political career. Now for the first time, Biography reveals the real George Washington, a living and breathing man whose passions and struggles are intertwined with the founding of our nation.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  3. Biography Season 20 Episode 1 - Chuck Norris
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E1

    Chuck Norris is a martial artist, actor, and cultural icon whose name became synonymous with toughness and discipline. The episode traces Norris’s journey from a modest childhood in Oklahoma and service in the U.S. Air Force to his discovery of karate, where he rose to become a world champion and teacher. Biography explores how his mastery of martial arts led to a successful film career, beginning with The Wrecking Crew and exploding into stardom through Way of the Dragon alongside Bruce Lee, Good Guys Wear Black, and the long‑running television hit Walker, Texas Ranger. Interviews, archival footage, and personal reflections reveal a man whose quiet determination and moral code shaped both his on‑screen persona and his real‑life philosophy. The program paints a portrait of Norris as more than an action hero—a disciplined mentor and enduring symbol of strength and perseverance.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  4. Biography Season 20 Episode 2 - General Douglas MacArthur: The Return of a Legend
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E2

    General Douglas MacArthur was one of America’s greatest and most complex commanders, a warrior so tough and determined that he helped win World War II with a simple promise: “I shall return.” MacArthur was a soldier’s soldier—the son of an officer, the star of West Point, and the Army’s youngest‑ever full general. Already a retired hero when recalled in 1941, he faced his greatest challenge defending an unprepared Pacific force against Japan’s relentless war machine. Biography traces his extraordinary life, from his disciplined upbringing and legendary stand in the Philippines to his controversial leadership in Korea and his dramatic clash with President Harry Truman. With rare footage and interviews with MacArthur’s comrades, family, and friends, this compelling Biography episode reveals the man behind the myth—a brilliant, stubborn, and fearless leader who remains a hero to millions.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  5. Biography Season 20 Episode 3 - Albert Einstein
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E3

    As one of the most important minds of all time, his name has become a universal synonym for genius. Born in Ulm, Germany, in 1879, Albert Einstein is perhaps best known for his ground-breaking theory of relativity, which helped earn him the coveted Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921. However, as phenomenal as his professional success was, Einstein's personal life suffered greatly because of his monomaniacal devotion to his work. In this enlightening program, learn more about the man behind the theories: from his early years as a passionate young physicist to the acquisition of celebrity status in his adopted country of America. Discover how Einstein became the subject of a federal investigation and why he is considered one of the fathers of the atomic bomb. Join Biography for a journey into the life of the first superstar of modern science, Albert Einstein.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  6. Biography Season 20 Episode 4 - Ben & Jerry's
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E4

    Ben & Jerry's ice cream is known as much for its rich, unusual flavors as for its unique approach to business, with good will, good times, and good ice cream as the cornerstone of the company. In 1977, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield enrolled in a $5 correspondence course to learn how to make ice cream, and one year later they opened the first Ben & Jerry's homemade ice cream shop in a renovated gas station in Burlington, Vermont. Their recipe was a sophisticated concoction: a blend of fresh Vermont milk, cream, and generous portions of whatever ingredients took their fancy. Flavor names like Cherry Garcia and Karamel Sutra are linked to Ben & Jerry's connection to their counter-culture upbringing of the '70s. This in-depth feature includes candid interviews with Ben, Jerry, and other leaders of this exceptional company.

    Director:Unknown
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  7. Biography Season 20 Episode 5 - Bill Clinton: Hope, Charisma & Controversy
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E5

    The first president to be born after WWII, he represented the strength and energy of a new generation. Although his term was marred by personal scandal and controversy, Bill Clinton managed to salvage his reputation and his career. Biography presents an intimate portrait of the charismatic leader, drawing on extensive interviews with friends and family-including his mother and biographer-and archival photographs and clips. Learn about his childhood in Hope, Arkansas, and trace his political career, from an influential handshake with JFK to the presidency. Follow Clinton through his Oxford days, Vietnam War protests, and his relationship with Hillary Rodham. Personal problems plagued Clinton throughout his career, but he managed to battle through, showing strength, dignity, and determination. Bill Clinton: Hope, Charisma & Controversy offers an inside-look at one of the most ambitious and resilient men in politics.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  8. Biography Season 20 Episode 6 - Catherine the Great
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E6

    Born a minor German princess destined for an arranged marriage, Catherine II would rise to become one of the most powerful and influential rulers in world history. This compelling episode of Biography traces the remarkable journey of Catherine the Great, from her arrival in Russia as a teenage bride to her dramatic seizure of the imperial throne. Through expert commentary, historical accounts, and vivid reenactments, discover how Catherine transformed herself into a skilled political strategist who expanded the Russian Empire, encouraged education and the arts, and embraced many of the ideas of the Enlightenment. The program also explores the controversies that surrounded her reign, including palace intrigue, political rivals, and the legends that have often overshadowed her accomplishments. Learn how Catherine overcame immense obstacles to lead Russia for more than three decades and secure her place as one of history's most formidable and fascinating monarchs.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  9. Biography Season 20 Episode 7 - Charles Darwin: Evolution's Voice
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E7

    Charles Darwin's theory of evolution is one of the most important discoveries in the history of science. But in his quest for truth he had to battle prejudice ignorance and his own fear. In his lifetime Darwin was reluctant to reveal his findings for fear that he and his family would be ostracized. His concerns were valid: his views were considered by many to be slanderous heresy. From his historic voyage on the Beagle to his personal anguish over publicizing his work Charles Darwin: Evolution's Voice offers a fascinating profile of "the Great Naturalist." Excerpts from his journals detail his discoveries while leading scientists and scholars including the author of Charles Darwin: Evolution of a Naturalist shed light on his private life public persona and monumental legacy. Join Biography in dissecting one of the most brilliant and contentious scientific lives in history.

    Director:Unknown
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  10. Biography Season 20 Episode 9 - Mussolini: Italy's Nightmare
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E9

    With pounding fists and brutal charisma, the enigmatic journalist Benito Mussolini seized power through a potent combination of terror and persuasion. Promising glory while crushing his enemies, he held Italy in his grasp for more than two decades. This revealing biography presentation offers an unforgettable exploration into the life of the diminutive man known as Il Duce. Rare clips and photos narrate Mussolini's evolution, from his days as a class bully to the creation of the dreaded Black Shirt Brigades, and historians reveal how his alliance with Hitler ultimately destroyed his country and led to his execution and mutilation by Italian partisans. Contemporary observers explore his renewed popularity and the shocking renaissance of fascism in Italy today. Mussolini: Italy's Nightmare presents the life and legacy of Il Duce, one of the most ruthless leaders of the 20th century.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  11. Biography Season 20 Episode 10 - Peter
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E10

    Born as Simon, a humble fisherman from Galilee, Peter would become one of the most influential figures in the history of Christianity. This episode of Biography explores the life of the man chosen by Jesus to be the leader of His followers and the foundation upon which the early Church would be built. Through historical insights, biblical accounts, and expert commentary, the program traces Peter's transformation from an ordinary laborer into a devoted disciple whose faith helped shape a worldwide movement. Discover the dramatic moments that defined his life, including his witnessing of Jesus' ministry, his moment of doubt and denial, and his eventual redemption and leadership among the apostles. The episode also examines Peter's missionary work, his role in spreading Christianity throughout the Roman world, and the traditions surrounding his final years and martyrdom. Learn how Peter's courage, faith, and enduring legacy made him one of the most revered figures in religious history.

    Director:Unknown
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  12. Biography Season 20 Episode 11 - Peter the Great: The Tyrant Reformer
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E11

    Towering over his people, he was a physical giant determined to shatter tradition and force his nation into the modern world. By the time Peter the Great was finished building cities and conquering nations, Russia had become a full-fledged empire. Biography traces the story of this strange and enigmatic figure, from his childhood war games to the creation of one of the world's most beautiful cities. Peter established a navy, westernized the army, and brought science, culture, and medicine to Russia, yet he was also a ruthless and brutal leader, known for torturing and executing his own son. Learn of his bizarre interests, including dentistry and an "All Drinking Senate", and witness Russia's vast expansion. Myriad interviews, extensive location footage, and period excerpts and art illuminate the world of Peter the Great, the czar who forged an empire.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  13. Biography Season 20 Episode 12 - Pocahontas: Ambassador of the New World
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E12

    She was a Native American princess who saved the life of English explorer Captain John Smith at the age of 12. Before her death at 22, she had single-handedly forged an improbably peace between two nations. Popular history remembers Pocahontas for a single act of courage, yet she had a vision of peaceful cooperation between the European settlers and her own people that was revolutionary in its modernity, despite jeopardizing her own safety. Ambassador, stateswoman, peacemaker, visionary, and friend, Pocahontas's struggle ultimately cost her life--but she lives on in the survival of the colony that led to the birth of a nation. Through location footage, fascinating interviews, realistic reenactments, and original period accounts, Biography presents the remarkable life and enduring legacy of one of the most intriguing figures in early American history.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  14. Biography Season 20 Episode 13 - Pontius Pilate
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E13

    As the Roman governor of Judea, Pontius Pilate presided over one of the most consequential trials in human history. Remembered for his role in the condemnation of Jesus of Nazareth, Pilate remains one of the most debated and enigmatic figures of the ancient world. This compelling episode of Biography examines the life and career of the man behind the biblical account, exploring the political tensions, religious conflicts, and imperial pressures that shaped his decisions. Through expert commentary, historical analysis, and dramatic reenactments, the program traces Pilate's rise within the Roman administration and his turbulent rule over a restless province. Discover the evidence separating history from legend, the challenges of governing Judea under Roman authority, and the events that forever linked Pilate's name to the crucifixion. Learn how a provincial governor became a figure whose actions would echo across centuries of religious belief, historical scholarship, and popular culture.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  15. Biography Season 20 Episode 14 - Rasputin: The Mad Monk
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E14

    He was an uneducated peasant who gained a reputation as a faith healer. His strange behavior and remarkable influence over the imperial family brought him notoriety and his death made him a legend. The mysterious monk favored by the Russian Czar, Grigori Rasputin was rumored to be a holy devil who preached the word of God, but practiced corruption. His presence weakened the already tenuous status of Russian royalty, hastening the October Revolution. In this definitive Biography investigation, leading historians unravel the sensational legend of the "mad monk" while rare photos and period accounts capture the strange intensity that made him a figure of mystery. Rasputin: The Mad Monk presents an amazing account of this strange and mysterious figure, one of the most captivating and controversial men in Russian history.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  16. Biography Season 20 Episode 15 - Saint Paul
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E15

    Born Saul of Tarsus, he began as a fierce persecutor of Christians before undergoing one of history's most dramatic spiritual transformations. This inspiring episode of Biography explores the life of Saint Paul, the missionary, theologian, and writer whose teachings helped shape the foundations of Christianity. Through expert analysis, historical evidence, and vivid reenactments, the program traces Paul's journey from his conversion on the road to Damascus to his tireless travels across the Roman Empire spreading the message of Jesus Christ. Discover how his letters to early Christian communities became some of the most influential writings in religious history and helped define Christian doctrine for generations to come. The episode also examines the hardships Paul endured, including imprisonment, persecution, and constant danger, as well as his unwavering commitment to his faith.

    Director:Unknown
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  17. Biography Season 20 Episode 16 - Solomon
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E16

    Wise, wealthy, and revered, King Solomon is remembered as one of the most celebrated rulers of the ancient world. This illuminating episode of Biography explores the life of the biblical king whose name became synonymous with wisdom, justice, and splendor. Through expert commentary, historical investigation, and dramatic reenactments, the program traces Solomon's rise to the throne of Israel following the reign of his father, King David. Discover the story behind his legendary judgments, including the famous dispute that demonstrated his extraordinary wisdom, and examine his role in building the magnificent First Temple in Jerusalem. The episode also explores the kingdom's unprecedented prosperity, its flourishing trade and culture, and the political alliances that expanded Solomon's influence across the region. Yet alongside his achievements came challenges, personal excesses, and decisions that ultimately contributed to divisions within his kingdom.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  18. Biography Season 20 Episode 17 - The Hiltons
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E17

    One of the wealthiest families in the country, the name Hilton resonates across America as they continue to pursue innovative business endeavors and dominate the headlines. In the early twentieth century, Conrad Hilton began working towards making his dream a reality, buying his first hotel in Cisco, Texas, in 1919. This act would be the beginning of Hilton's aim to build a multi-billion-dollar hospitality empire that would eventually make him, and his descendants, some of the wealthiest and most recognizable people in America. From his widely publicized marriage to Zsa Zsa Gabor to the more recent exploits of his famous-for-being-famous great-granddaughters Nicky and Paris, Biography probes the fascinating history behind four generations of Hiltons. Featuring footage from Conrad and Gabor's wedding and Paris's infamous publicity stunts, The Hiltons is an in-depth profile of one of the country's most illustrious families.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  19. Biography Season 20 Episode 18 - The Kellogg Brothers: Corn Flake Kings
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E18

    They may have collaborated on the cornflake, but the Kellogg brothers could not have been less alike. One was an eccentric crusader for health, the other a shrewd businessman. John Harvey Kellogg and his younger brother Will Keith played out one of the most dramatic and bitter family feuds in American history, yet before their split, they were partners for 20 years. Biography paints a detailed portrait of the Kellogg brothers, drawing on extensive original footage and commentary from family members and historians. Witness the feud that drove the brothers apart and watch Will Keith turn their humble invention into the cornerstone of one of the most successful companies in the world. From the first corn flake to their 10-year legal battle, The Kellogg Brothers: Corn Flake Kings presents the tumultuous story of the men who revolutionized America's breakfast.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  20. Biography Season 20 Episode 19 - William Shatner: Captain's Log
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E19

    From humble beginnings in Montreal to commanding the bridge of one of television's most iconic starships, William Shatner has built one of the most recognizable careers in entertainment history. This engaging episode of Biography, William Shatner: Captain's Log, explores the life and legacy of the actor whose portrayal of Captain James T. Kirk transformed him into a worldwide cultural phenomenon. Through revealing interviews, rare archival footage, and behind-the-scenes accounts, the program traces Shatner's journey from a classically trained performer to the enduring face of the Star Trek franchise. Discover how he navigated the challenges of sudden fame, typecasting, and professional reinvention while achieving success on stage, television, film, and as an author and recording artist. The episode also examines his complex relationship with the character that defined his career and the devoted fan community that embraced him for generations.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  21. Biography Season 20 Episode 20 - Al Qaeda
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E20

    For many in the Western world, their name is unequivocally associated with terror, tragedy, and death. For many more, however, Al Qaeda signifies strength, power, and redemption. In this insightful program, Biography takes an astonishing journey around the globe to find out more about this terrorist organization's secret world. From their beginnings as "Arab Afghans" fighting under the banner of Islam against Soviet Communism in the 1980s to their involvement in present-day conflicts and terrorist attacks, examine the origins, aims, and history behind this infamous group. Delve into the personality of their leader Osama Bin Laden, and discover the reasons why he and his followers have become the implacable enemies of the United States. Featuring rare footage of Bin Laden and his closest associates, as well as FBI surveillance tapes of terrorists in Sudan, this is a comprehensive and discerning look at one of the most dangerous organizations in the world.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  22. Biography Season 20 Episode 21 - Frank Serpico: Honor Bound
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E21

    He was an honest cop whose refusal to be complicit in the severe corruption of the New York City Police Department in the 1960s and '70s led him down a dark, dangerous path and nearly cost him his life. When detective Frank Serpico went to the New York Times with his story of corruption, the result was a scandalized NYPD and city administration. During a 1971 narcotics bust, Serpico was shot point-blank in the face by a drug dealer. His partners didn't back him up or call for help as he lay bleeding to death. Later, after testifying before the Knapp Commission on police corruption, Serpico retired and left the country for several years. In this amazing Biography, explore the life and legacy of a man whose courage brought to light one of the most fraudulent periods in the history of the NYPD.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  23. Biography Season 20 Episode 22 - Gerald R. Ford: Healing the Presidency
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E22

    As the 38th U.S. president, Gerald Ford holds the unique position of being the only person to serve as both vice president and president without ever being elected. Sometimes called the "accidental president," Ford's refreshing honesty and integrity helped restore the nation's confidence in the White House following the scandalous Nixon years. Before his appointment to the vice presidency, Ford served as a popular member of the House of Representatives for 25 years and as House Minority Leader for eight of those years. From his service in World War II to the controversial pardoning of Richard Nixon to his failed 1976 reelection bid, this is the fascinating story of one of the most remarkable leaders America has ever known. Through interviews with family, friends, and former colleagues, Biography reveals the man behind one of the most notable presidencies of the 20th century.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  24. Biography Season 20 Episode 23 - Jane Austen
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E23

    In six extraordinary works, she cast her ironic yet sympathetic eye on the privileged life of Georgian England. While Jane Austen's books have been in print continuously for over two centuries, the iconic author never lived to witness appreciation for her monumental contribution to English literature. Throughout the years, several of her novels have been made into films, sometimes numerous versions in a single year, confirming that although the world she chronicled has long since disappeared, the essence of Austen's wit and wisdom remain undimmed. In this captivating program, discover the true story behind this savvy and accomplished writer, whose incredible artistic achievement becomes all the more impressive when one considers that her two greatest novels, Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility, were both written before she turned 21. From her brief life to her place in the literary canon, Biography draws on expert interviews and Austen's own words to tell her unique tale.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  25. Biography Season 20 Episode 24 - The Brontë Sisters
    0.0/10(0 votes)

    S20:E24

    Their names are synonymous with some of English literature's most timeless and celebrated novels. However, the real-life story of the famous Brontë sisters is steeped in even greater controversy and heartbreak than the lives of their tragic characters. In this insightful program, the fascinating lives of Charlotte, Emily, and Anne are vividly illuminated. At a time when the notion of a woman novelist was almost unheard of, these intelligent, independent, and talented sisters persevered in their writing, publishing their most famous novels under male pseudonyms. Drawing much of their inspiration from the tragedies they suffered in their own lives, the authors of Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, and Agnes Grey would sadly not live to reap the financial rewards or the public accolades for their distinguished works. Featuring insightful commentary from renowned biographers and literary critics, Biography proudly presents the captivating story behind the legendary Brontë sisters.

    Director:Unknown
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Season 20 Ratings Summary

"J. Pierpont Morgan: Emperor of Wall Street" is the best rated episode of "Biography" season 20. It scored 7/10 based on 14 votes. Directed by Unknown and written by Unknown, it aired on 11/11/2005. This episode is rated 1.0 points higher than the second-best, "George Washington: American Revolutionary".