Animals: Heroes of History

Since ancient times, animals have shaped history side by side with humans: elephants became tanks, pigs – flamethrowers, and horses – the backbone of armies. They stormed the Alps with Hannibal, saved entire battalions in the world wars, and were the first to conquer space. Whether nameless or famous – like Vizir, Napoleon's horse – animals accompanied humanity in its quest for conquest. How did the CIA try to turn ordinary cats into living spy devices? What role did beloved pets play in shaping the political image of Elizabeth II, Churchill, and French presidents? How did a bear rise to the rank of corporal? Jean-Baptiste Patte and Emmanuel Chaunu reveal unknown facts about four-legged heroes: from the war elephants of Antiquity and the 'unsinkable' ship cats to space dogs and diplomatic gifts that changed the course of negotiations.