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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.

Africa and Britain: A Forgotten History

From slavery to settlement, award-winning historian David Olusoga explores the history of black Britain.

Russia 1917: Countdown to Revolution

The names of Stalin, Lenin and Trotsky are infamous today. But in the space of a few mere months they went from obscure, slogan-shouting nobodies to supreme leaders of the largest nation on earth. This acclaimed Russian Revolution film focuses on the 245 days that brought three men to power. Learn more about a pivotal moment in Russian history and Russian politics.

The Persians: A History of Iran

Stream The Persians - A History of Iran on BBC Select

How is the modern Islamic nation of Iran influenced by its ancient Persian heritage?

Samira Ahmed starts her epic trek through Persia’s rich history at a 3,000-year-old temple in this Persian Empire three-part documentary series.

Persia, the world’s first empire, has a complex past. In this fascinating series, journalist Samira Ahmed visits historical and cultural sites across Iran that few westerners have ever seen.

Focusing on the rich artistic legacy of the region, she looks at literature, painting and ancient structures to relay a tale of power and ultimate destruction.

How much did this history influence modern Iran?

Archaeology: A Secret History

If you don’t think history is a dangerous business, think again.  Richard Miles battles heat, ticks and leeches in search of secrets.

People aren’t just interested in the present, we’re intrigued by the past too. Throughout time, humankind has been fascinated by history and the Kings, Queens and ancient civilisations that have come before.

In this three-part archaeology documentary series, Richard Miles takes a journey through history to chart how humans have searched for the truth about the adventures of their antecedents. Travelling from sweltering jungles in Mexico to peat bogs in Scandinavia, he digs deep into ancient secrets to unearth some spectacular surprises.

Vienna: Empire, Dynasty and Dream

Simon Sebag Montefiore tells the story of the magical capital of Austria: Vienna.