Politics documentaries
Magna Carta
The Magna Carta is perhaps the most famous constitutional document in history. Originally created to curb the wrongdoings of King John, it contributed to making everyone – including the monarch – subject to the rule of law. The document, which was inked on animal skin, had a profound influence on England and the wider world and it inspired many others, including the American Declaration of Independence and the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
In this BBC documentary, renowned historian David Starkey explores the origins of the Magna Carta, and poses the question whether it is time to resurrect this document that is the symbol of individual freedom.
Leaving Afghanistan
Political insiders tell the story of the US-led coalition’s desperate attempts to end the war in Afghanistan during its two decades of occupation.
When America finally withdrew its troops from Afghanistan in August 2021, it was the culmination of almost 20 years of failed attempts to bring an end to the conflict – and a decision that effectively surrendered Afghanistan to the resurgent Taliban. What started as a mission to capture Osama Bin Laden, ended with four successive presidents trying to find a way to end a campaign that killed tens of thousands of soldiers and civilians and destroyed a nation. Now insiders and experts key players and politicians tell the story of this disastrous war.
Could Hitler Have Been Stopped?
In this thought provoking history documentary, leading historians consider strategies that could have been used to avoid conflict with Hitler and prevent World War II.
Before the war began, nations adopted a policy of appeasement to the Nazi regime. But the threat of Hitler and the lengths he would go to achieve his barbaric aims were constantly underestimated.
Churchill: Winning the War, Losing the Peace
Weeks after winning World War II in 1945, Winston Churchill found himself in a new battle: to be re-elected British Prime Minister.
He was confident of being rewarded for his leadership against Hitler and the Nazis. But as this BBC history documentary reveals, Churchill was humiliated and lost the general election.
Why did his countrymen turn so vehemently on their Great British Bulldog?
Zelensky: The Making of a President
In just over three years, Volodymyr Zelensky has gone from Ukraine’s best-known comedian to one of the world’s most recognizable leaders. He’s rallied his country in its fight for survival against Russia and has gained global respect and admiration.
This in-depth documentary tells the fascinating story of the Ukrainian president’s transformation. The BBC’s former Ukraine correspondent Jonah Fisher who followed Zelensky closely during his rise to power, explores one of the world’s most incredible political journeys.