History documentaries

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.

Meet the Roman Emperor with Mary Beard

Acclaimed classicist Mary Beard explores what it was really like for the emperors of ancient Rome, taking us behind palace walls to reveal the hidden world of the Roman imperial court and lifestyle. Deciphering rare inscriptions, imperial-era artifacts and exploring epic locations, Mary gives us her unique insights into the emperors’ lives, homes, entourages, sex lives and health.

The Victorians

Jeremy Paxman takes his love of Victorian paintings as the starting point for a journey into Victorian Britain. Such works of art may not be fashionable today, but they are a goldmine of information about the most dynamic age in British history. He discovers the Victorians were a romantic, adventurous, creative, and inventive people who made Britain the richest and most powerful nation on Earth.

Wellington: The Iron Duke Unmasked

The Duke of Wellington was one of the most famous Britons of the 19th century. His victory over Napoleon at Waterloo altered the course of history. General, politician, lover, outsider, this military hero was far more complex than his public image suggests. Actor Richard E Grant goes in search of the true Iron Duke in this thrilling history documentary.

Titanic In Colour

When the Titanic sank in 1912, the news shook the world. The word ‘Titanic’ instantly became synonymous with disaster, forever stuck in the black and white world. Now, thanks to painstaking research and unique colorization techniques, this incredible documentary brings to life everything from the ship’s lavish interiors to the larger-than-life stories of the people who built the ship.

Hadrian

Immortalized in the UK after building a wall which bears his name to this day, Hadrian brought an unparalleled period of peace and prosperity to the Roman Empire. Dan Snow takes us on a journey around Hadrian’s vast domain and uncovers the genius and the dark side of this sometimes ruthless ruler. At the heart of his great Empire, lies a mystery. Hadrian’s relationship with a young man, Antinous.

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