History documentaries
The Six Queens of Henry VIII
King Henry VIII’s reign was defined by his marriages. Coercion, manipulation and ultimately murder were all employed. Wives were selected and discarded for political and religious reasons and in a desperate attempt to sire an heir.
Join historians Dan Jones and Suzannah Lipscomb as they explore what these turbulent relationships tell us about England’s legendary king.
Blitz Spirit with Lucy Worsley
In this historical documentary about the Blitz, Lucy Worsley looks at The Battle of Britain and the paranoia that it left behind.
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
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?