This is a fascinating 15 minute video that traces the history of break beats, particularly the "Amen Break," a six-second drum sample from the b-side of a 1969 single by The Winstons. It looks at its use in early hip hop and as the foundation for several dance/techno subcultures, also touching upon the current attitude towards the ownership of culture and art.
Can I Get An Amen? (Click to open in a new window)It's really quite brilliant, and I highly recommend you taking a look at it when you have the time and bandwidth to spare.