History documentaries

History genre page header
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.

The Nazis: A Warning From History

nazis a warning from history

How could a cultured nation at Europe’s heart be responsible for acts so heinous, they have altered concepts of what man is capable of? This groundbreaking documentary series is the definitive history of the rise and fall of the Nazis. From the first stirrings of Hitler’s diabolical vision to the destruction of the Nazi war machine, unseen footage and eyewitnesses reveal the inner story of WWII.

Curse of the Ancients with Alice Roberts

Curse of the ancients with alex

Riddled with wars, pandemics, famines and cataclysmic floods, the ancient world was a cursed and violent place. In this seminal history documentary series, historian Alice Roberts goes back in time to look at the factors that toppled the world of our ancestors. Using modern scientific techniques, she will try to decipher how civilization survived such turbulent and destructive eras.

Invasion

Invasion

Some were bloody, others absurd and doomed. The British Isles has been invaded continually over thousands of years. In this fascinating documentary series, intrepid historian Sam Willis investigates the history of Britain’s invasions. From Barbary pirates and brutal border raids to the air attacks of the 20th century, these invasions have shaped modern Britain and made the country we see today.

Inside the Tower of London

Inside The Tower of London

The Tower of London has stood at the center of British history for nearly 1000 years. This fascinating history documentary series explores the incredible stories and goes behind closed doors to see what keeps the Tower functioning today. How was the Tower built? Who were the famous people to have walked through its gates? And meet the fascinating figures who keep the Tower running.

King George and Queen Mary: The Royals Who Rescued the Monarchy

King George & Queen Mary The Royals Who rescued the Monarchy

Elizabeth II’s grandparents, King George V and Queen Mary, had a huge influence on the beloved British monarch. As this insightful history documentary series reveals,
George and Mary were pioneering, forward thinking royals who rescued the monarchy from potential disaster. Adored by the public, they were the epitome of regal duty, but often failed when it came to family matters.