Looking for the best history TV series? Look no further! Discover captivating stories, fascinating characters, and immersive historical settings in our handpicked selection of top-notch shows. From gripping dramas to informative documentaries, these series will transport you to different eras and bring history to life. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through time.
If you’re a history enthusiast, you won’t want to miss out on the best history TV series that offer an immersive and educational experience. These captivating shows delve into the past, bringing key events and figures to life. With their engaging storytelling and meticulous attention to detail, these history TV series provide viewers with a deep understanding of our world’s fascinating past. From exploring ancient civilizations to examining pivotal moments in modern history, these shows offer a diverse range of topics that cater to all interests. Whether you’re intrigued by political intrigue, military conquests, or cultural revolutions, the best history TV series are sure to satisfy your thirst for knowledge. So sit back, relax, and embark on a journey through time with these compelling history TV series.
| # | TV Series | Genre | Release Year | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Band of Brothers | War, Drama | 2001 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | Breaking Bad | Crime, Drama, Thriller | 2008-2013 | 9.4/10 |
| 3 | The Crown | Drama, History | 2016-present | 8.7/10 |
| 4 | Vikings | Action, Adventure, Drama | 2013-2020 | 8.5/10 |
| 5 | Rome | Action, Drama, History | 2005-2007 | 8.7/10 |
| 6 | Peaky Blinders | Crime, Drama | 2013-present | 8.8/10 |
| 7 | Downton Abbey | Drama, Romance | 2010-2015 | 8.7/10 |
| 8 | Stranger Things | Drama, Fantasy, Horror | 2016-present | 8.7/10 |
| 9 | Mad Men | Drama | 2007-2015 | 8.6/10 |
| 10 | Game of Thrones | Action, Adventure, Drama | 2011-2019 | 9.3/10 |
Table of Contents
The Crown
- Genre: Historical Drama
- Seasons: 4
- IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
- Starring: Olivia Colman, Tobias Menzies, Helena Bonham Carter
- Plot: The Crown is a critically acclaimed historical drama series that follows the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. It offers a fascinating insight into the personal and political challenges faced by the British monarchy throughout the decades. The series beautifully portrays the life and struggles of Queen Elizabeth II, showcasing her journey from a young princess to the longest-reigning monarch in British history.
The Crown has received widespread praise for its exceptional storytelling, brilliant performances, and stunning production design. It provides an immersive experience into the world of royalty, exploring the complexities of power, duty, and personal sacrifice.
Band of Brothers
- Genre: War Drama
- Seasons: 1
- IMDb Rating: 9.4/10
- Starring: Damian Lewis, Ron Livingston, Donnie Wahlberg
- Plot: Band of Brothers is a gripping war drama miniseries based on the true story of Easy Company, a parachute infantry regiment during World War II. It follows their journey from training to their involvement in major historical events such as D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge. This series offers a realistic and emotional portrayal of the camaraderie and sacrifices made by soldiers during wartime.
Band of Brothers is highly regarded for its authenticity and attention to detail. It captures the harrowing realities of war while highlighting the bonds formed between soldiers in the face of adversity.
Game of Thrones
- Genre: Fantasy, Drama
- Seasons: 8
- IMDb Rating: 9.3/10
- Starring: Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, Peter Dinklage
- Plot: Game of Thrones is an epic fantasy series set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos. It follows the power struggles between noble families as they vie for control of the Iron Throne. The series is known for its complex characters, intricate plotlines, and unexpected twists and turns.
Game of Thrones has garnered a massive fan base worldwide for its immersive world-building, political intrigue, and high-stakes storytelling. It explores themes of power, loyalty, and the consequences of one’s actions in a richly detailed and visually stunning setting.
Vikings
- Genre: Historical Drama
- Seasons: 6
- IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
- Starring: Travis Fimmel, Katheryn Winnick, Alexander Ludwig
- Plot: Vikings is a historical drama series inspired by the legendary Norse heroes and their exploration, conquests, and cultural clashes during the Viking Age. It delves into the lives of legendary figures like Ragnar Lothbrok and his descendants as they navigate treacherous waters and forge their own destinies.
Vikings offers a thrilling blend of historical accuracy and captivating storytelling. It showcases the brutal yet fascinating world of the Vikings, their customs, and their relentless pursuit of glory. The series provides a glimpse into the Norse mythology and their impact on European history.
Rome
- Genre: Historical Drama
- Seasons: 2
- IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
- Starring: Kevin McKidd, Ray Stevenson, Polly Walker
- Plot: Rome is a historical drama series that chronicles the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, focusing on the lives of two soldiers, Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo. It offers a vivid portrayal of ancient Rome’s political intrigue, power struggles, and the daily lives of its citizens.
Rome is praised for its meticulous attention to historical detail and compelling character development. It brings ancient Rome to life with its stunning visuals and gripping narrative, showcasing the grandeur and decadence of one of history’s greatest civilizations.
Peaky Blinders
- Genre: Crime Drama
- Seasons: 5
- IMDb Rating: 8.8/10
- Starring: Cillian Murphy, Helen McCrory, Paul Anderson
- Plot: Peaky Blinders is a gritty crime drama set in post-World War I Birmingham, England. It follows the Shelby crime family led by the charismatic and cunning Tommy Shelby as they navigate the treacherous world of organized crime.
Peaky Blinders stands out for its stylish cinematography, compelling storytelling, and superb performances. It offers a unique blend of historical backdrop and fictional narrative, immersing viewers in a world of gangsters, corruption, and family loyalty.
Downton Abbey
- Genre: Historical Drama
- Seasons: 6
- IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
- Starring: Hugh Bonneville, Maggie Smith, Michelle Dockery
- Plot: Downton Abbey is a period drama series set in early 20th-century England. It depicts the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants, exploring the social changes, class divisions, and historical events that shaped their world.
Downton Abbey is celebrated for its elegant storytelling, rich character development, and meticulous attention to historical accuracy. It offers a captivating glimpse into the upstairs-downstairs dynamics of a bygone era, showcasing the challenges and aspirations of both the aristocracy and their loyal staff.
Breaking Bad
- Genre: Crime Drama
- Seasons: 5
- IMDb Rating: 9.5/10
- Starring: Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn
- Plot: Breaking Bad follows the transformation of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer, and his former student Jesse Pinkman. The series delves into the moral complexities and consequences of their criminal activities.
Breaking Bad is widely regarded as one of the greatest television series of all time. It captivates audiences with its intense storytelling, exceptional performances, and exploration of themes such as morality, identity, and the consequences of one’s choices.
Stranger Things
- Genre: Science Fiction, Horror
- Seasons: 4 (ongoing)
- IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
- Starring: Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Millie Bobby Brown
- Plot: Stranger Things is a thrilling science fiction series set in the 1980s. It follows a group of friends as they uncover dark secrets and supernatural phenomena in their small town, including the mysterious disappearance of one of their own.
Stranger Things has gained a massive following for its nostalgic homage to 80s pop culture, its compelling characters, and its blend of sci-fi, horror, and coming-of-age themes. It keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its suspenseful storytelling and supernatural mysteries.
Mad Men
- Genre: Drama
- Seasons: 7
- IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
- Starring: Jon Hamm, Elisabeth Moss, Vincent Kartheiser
- Plot: Mad Men is a period drama series set in the 1960s advertising world of New York City. It delves into the personal and professional lives of the enigmatic Don Draper and his colleagues, exploring themes of identity, gender roles, and societal changes.
Mad Men is praised for its stylish visuals, complex characters, and thought-provoking storytelling. It offers a captivating portrayal of a bygone era, shedding light on the cultural shifts and challenges faced by individuals in the advertising industry during that time.
What are some of the best history TV series?
There are several highly acclaimed history TV series that have captivated audiences around the world. One of the most popular is “Game of Thrones,” which although set in a fictional world, draws inspiration from historical events and societies. Another must-watch series is “Band of Brothers,” which follows the journey of an American paratrooper unit during World War II. “The Crown” offers a fascinating glimpse into the reign of Queen Elizabeth II and the British monarchy. For those interested in ancient history, “Rome” provides a gripping portrayal of the rise and fall of the Roman Empire. “Vikings” takes viewers on a thrilling adventure through Norse history and mythology. These are just a few examples, but there are many more incredible history TV series to explore.
What makes a history TV series great?
A great history TV series combines meticulous research, compelling storytelling, and strong performances by the cast. Historical accuracy is crucial, as it allows viewers to immerse themselves in the time period being depicted. Detailed costumes, authentic sets, and attention to historical details further enhance the viewing experience. Engaging characters who navigate through significant events and conflicts help to bring history to life. A well-paced narrative that balances drama, action, and historical context keeps audiences hooked. Ultimately, a great history TV series not only educates but also entertains, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
Why should I watch history TV series?
Watching history TV series can be both educational and entertaining. They offer a unique opportunity to learn about different time periods, cultures, and significant events that have shaped our world. History TV series bring historical figures to life, allowing us to better understand their motivations, challenges, and triumphs. They provide valuable insights into human nature and the complexities of society throughout different eras. Additionally, history TV series often feature high production values, stunning visuals, and gripping storylines that keep viewers engaged. Whether you have a passion for history or simply enjoy well-crafted television, history TV series are a fantastic choice for expanding your knowledge and enjoying quality entertainment.
Popular historical TV series: “Game of Thrones”
“Game of Thrones” is a highly acclaimed historical fantasy television series that captivated audiences around the world. Set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos, the show follows the power struggles between noble families as they vie for control of the Iron Throne. With its intricate plotlines, complex characters, and stunning visuals, “Game of Thrones” has become one of the best history TV series of all time.
Engaging historical drama: “The Crown”
“The Crown” is a captivating historical drama that chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. The series offers a fascinating glimpse into the personal and political challenges faced by the British monarchy throughout different eras. With its stellar cast, meticulous attention to detail, and compelling storytelling, “The Crown” has garnered critical acclaim and is considered one of the best history TV series.
Intriguing historical crime series: “Peaky Blinders”
“Peaky Blinders” is a gripping historical crime drama set in post-World War I Birmingham, England. The show follows the Shelby crime family as they navigate the treacherous underworld and clash with rival gangs. With its stylish cinematography, stellar performances, and gritty narrative, “Peaky Blinders” has gained a dedicated fan base and stands out as one of the best history TV series.
