By "assembling" some of the most fascinating figures in world history, Meeting of Minds provided a groundbreaking opportunity for audiences to be exposed to ideas by way of a medium not normally known for its intellectual vigor. Portrayed by actors, panelists engage in stimulating round-table discussions that were conducted like any other talk show but featured prominent influencers from bygone generations—not just philosophers and politicians, but poets, playwrights, and presidents. From activists and artists to international leaders— both famous and infamous— these conversations are unfailingly witty, thought-provoking, and genuinely entertaining.

An innovative series, Meeting of Minds remains one of the most delightful ways of gaining historical perspective ever devised, and these original soundtrack recordings capture the intellectual and spirited debates of the episodes hosted by Steve Allen. The panelists featured in this volume are Oliver Cromwell, the only ruler of England who was neither a king nor a queen, Daniel O'Connell—"The great Irish Liberator"—and Catherine the Great, empress of Russia for thirty years, describes her lifelong passion for her adopted country—and refuses to apologize for her more notorious passions. Though all three of these giants suffered ignominious treatment in death, their dramatic interactions offer an exciting climax to this intellectually stimulating series.