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History documentaries

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BBC Select is the place to discover so much more about history. Stream a range of compelling BBC history documentaries that explore the people, places and events of the past that shaped our world. Whether it’s the Roman Empire, Nelson and Napoleon, Black history, the story of the Titanic or the Tudors, BBC Select brings acclaimed and award-winning history shows, and featuring experts including Bettany Hughes, Lucy Worsley, Simon Schama and David Olusoga.

Henry VIII's Enforcer: The Rise and Fall of Thomas Cromwell

Image of Henry VIII

Was Thomas Cromwell a corrupt, ambitious politician or has history unfairly maligned him?

Thomas Cromwell rose from poor beginnings to become chief minister and the power behind the throne to King Henry VIII. However, falling victim to the King’s anger, he was beheaded in 1540. His greatest triumph was usurped and destroyed. Thomas Cromwell has gone down in history as an ambitious and corrupt politician. But this BBC Thomas Cromwell documentary asks, is that fact or fiction?

The Stuarts

The S

The Stuart monarchs are considered merciless tyrants, but they also forged modern Britain.

Ruling Britain from 1603 to 1714, the Stuart monarchs have often been branded as merciless tyrants. But the kingdoms they ruled, Scotland, England and Ireland, were already steeped in bloodshed and infighting as they took power. Historian Dr Clare Jackson argues that the Stuarts were Britain’s defining royal family and their impact on the country is still felt today.

Nuremburg: The Nazi Trials

After the atrocities of World War II, leading Nazis were tried at the Nuremberg WarCrimes Tribunal. This gripping documentary attempts to delve inside the minds and secret workings of Hitler’s Nazi leadership. Meticulously crafted using archive clips and courtroom footage, one of the most important trials in history, that brought Hitler’s willing collaborators to justice, is explored.

Egypt

Watch Egypt on BBC Select

Journey back in time to explore three of the most important discoveries from the world of ancient Egypt in this three-part documentary. This fascinating dramatized documentary series focuses on Howard Carter’s discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, Belzoni’s finds from the reign of Ramesses II and Champollion’s deciphering of hieroglyphs.

These remarkable pioneers unlocked the secrets of one of history’s greatest civilizations.

Antiques Roadshow

Antiques Roadshow 49

The Antiques Roadshow returns, with members of the public bringing along their treasures for examination by experts. Some discover that their ephemera is worth much more than they ever expected, while others find they have a fake on their hands. Amazing finds include a medal awarded to a carrier pigeon, garden gnomes, ancient chocolate and a luxurious Louis Vuitton case.