Looking for the best history TV series to binge-watch? Look no further! Discover captivating stories, fascinating characters, and immersive historical settings in these top-rated shows. From gripping dramas to insightful documentaries, these series will transport you through time and leave you craving for more. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey into the past with the best history TV series available now.
If you’re a history enthusiast, you won’t want to miss out on the best history TV series available today. These captivating shows bring the past to life, providing viewers with an immersive and educational experience. With their engaging storytelling, meticulous research, and high production values, these series have become a favorite among history buffs. From ancient civilizations to pivotal moments in world history, these top-rated historical TV shows cover a wide range of fascinating topics. Whether you’re interested in exploring the rise and fall of empires or delving into the lives of influential figures, these must-watch history series offer something for everyone. So, grab your popcorn and prepare to be transported back in time with these compelling historical TV shows.
| # | TV Series | Genre | IMDb Rating | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Band of Brothers | War/Drama | 9.4/10 | 10/10 |
| 2 | Breaking Bad | Crime/Drama | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 3 | The Crown | Drama/History | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 4 | Rome | Action/Drama | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 5 | Vikings | Action/Drama | 8.5/10 | 9/10 |
| 6 | Downton Abbey | Drama/Romance | 8.7/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 7 | Narcos | Biography/Crime/Drama | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 8 | Peaky Blinders | Crime/Drama | 8.8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 9 | Game of Thrones | Action/Adventure/Drama | 9.3/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Stranger Things | Drama/Fantasy/Horror | 8.7/10 | 7/10 |
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 chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the personal and political challenges faced by the British monarch throughout her reign.
The Crown has received widespread praise for its exceptional storytelling, brilliant performances, and lavish production design. It provides an intimate portrayal of the royal family and the events that shaped modern Britain. One interesting fact about The Crown is that each season covers a specific period in Queen Elizabeth II’s life, with different actors portraying her at different stages.
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 that follows the journey of Easy Company, a parachute infantry regiment, during World War II. It explores the camaraderie, sacrifices, and challenges faced by these brave soldiers.
Band of Brothers is widely regarded as one of the greatest war dramas ever made. It offers a realistic portrayal of the horrors of war while highlighting the bonds formed between soldiers. An interesting fact about Band of Brothers is that it was produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, who aimed to honor the real-life individuals who served in Easy Company.
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 based on George R.R. Martin’s novels. Set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos, it depicts the power struggles, alliances, and battles for the Iron Throne.
Game of Thrones captivated audiences worldwide with its intricate storytelling, complex characters, and stunning visuals. It became a cultural phenomenon and garnered a massive fan base. The series is known for its unexpected plot twists and shocking character deaths. An interesting fact about Game of Thrones is that it holds the record for the most Emmy Awards won by a scripted television series.
Vikings
- Genre: Historical Drama
- Seasons: 6
- IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
- Starring: Travis Fimmel, Katheryn Winnick, Gustaf Skarsgård
- Plot: Vikings is a historical drama series inspired by the legendary Norse hero Ragnar Lothbrok and his adventures. It explores the Viking culture, raids, exploration of new lands, and clashes with other civilizations.
Vikings offers a captivating portrayal of Norse mythology and Viking society. It combines historical accuracy with compelling storytelling to create a thrilling viewing experience. The series has gained a loyal following for its strong characters and intense battle sequences. An interesting fact about Vikings is that it was inspired by real historical figures and events from the Viking Age.
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 set in early 20th century England. It follows the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants, depicting the social changes and historical events that shape their lives.
Downton Abbey is known for its elegant costumes, intricate set designs, and compelling storytelling. It offers a glimpse into the upstairs-downstairs dynamics of a British estate and explores themes of love, class, and societal shifts. An interesting fact about Downton Abbey is that it received critical acclaim and won numerous awards during its run, including several Primetime Emmy Awards.
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 and their rise to power in the world of organized crime, led by the charismatic Tommy Shelby.
Peaky Blinders is praised for its stylish cinematography, strong performances, and atmospheric soundtrack. It offers a unique blend of historical events and fictional storytelling, immersing viewers in the world of gangsters and their complex relationships. An interesting fact about Peaky Blinders is that the series takes its name from a real urban youth gang that operated in Birmingham during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Rome
- Genre: Historical Drama
- Seasons: 2
- IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
- Starring: Kevin McKidd, Ray Stevenson, Polly Walker
- Plot: Rome is an epic historical drama series set during the rise and fall of the Roman Republic. It explores the lives of both fictional and historical characters, showcasing the political intrigue, warfare, and cultural developments of ancient Rome.
Rome offers a visually stunning portrayal of ancient Rome, capturing the grandeur and brutality of the era. It delves into the lives of key figures such as Julius Caesar and Mark Antony while also depicting the struggles of ordinary citizens. An interesting fact about Rome is that it was praised for its attention to historical accuracy and detailed production design.
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. It explores the consequences of their choices and the moral dilemmas they face.
Breaking Bad is widely regarded as one of the greatest television series of all time. It is praised for its gripping storytelling, complex characters, and brilliant performances. The series delves into themes of morality, power, and the consequences of one’s actions. An interesting fact about Breaking Bad is that it received numerous awards, including 16 Primetime Emmy Awards and two Golden Globe Awards.
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 nostalgic science fiction series set in the 1980s. It follows a group of kids in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, as they encounter supernatural forces, government conspiracies, and a parallel dimension known as the Upside Down.
Stranger Things has gained a massive following for its blend of sci-fi, horror, and 80s pop culture references. It pays homage to classic films and TV shows from the era while delivering a thrilling and heartfelt story. The series is known for its talented young cast and its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia. An interesting fact about Stranger Things is that it quickly became a cultural phenomenon, with its iconic characters and memorable catchphrases becoming widely recognized.
Narcos
- Genre: Crime Drama
- Seasons: 3
- IMDb Rating: 8.8/10
- Starring: Wagner Moura, Pedro Pascal, Boyd Holbrook
- Plot: Narcos is a gripping crime drama series that chronicles the rise and fall of notorious drug lords and the efforts of law enforcement to bring them down. It primarily focuses on the drug trade in Colombia during the late 20th century.
Narcos offers a compelling portrayal of real-life events and characters involved in the drug trade. It explores the complexities of the war on drugs, the power dynamics between cartels and law enforcement, and the human cost of the illicit trade. An interesting fact about Narcos is that it blends archival footage with fictionalized storytelling to create a captivating narrative.
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 “Band of Brothers,” which follows the journey of Easy Company during World War II. Another must-watch is “The Crown,” a historical drama that chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. For those interested in ancient history, “Rome” offers a gripping portrayal of the rise and fall of the Roman Empire. “Vikings” is another fantastic series that delves into the adventures and conquests of Norse warriors. Additionally, “Downton Abbey” provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of an aristocratic British family during the early 20th century. These are just a few examples, but there are many more incredible history TV series to explore.
What makes a history TV series engaging?
A captivating history TV series often combines meticulous attention to historical accuracy with compelling storytelling and well-developed characters. It should transport viewers to a specific time period, bringing it to life through detailed set designs, costumes, and authentic dialogue. Engaging history series also strive to strike a balance between educational value and entertainment, making the subject matter accessible and engaging for a wide audience. Whether it’s through intense battle scenes, political intrigue, or personal relationships, a great history TV series keeps viewers hooked by immersing them in the past while delivering an engaging narrative.
Where can I watch these history TV series?
Many history TV series can be found on popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and HBO Max. These platforms offer a wide selection of historical dramas and documentaries that cater to various interests and time periods. Some series may also be available for purchase or rental on platforms like iTunes or Google Play. Additionally, certain TV networks or cable channels may have their own streaming services where you can access their history-related content. It’s always a good idea to check the availability of specific series on these platforms and explore their libraries to find the best history TV series to watch.
Popular historical TV series
There are several captivating historical TV series that have gained immense popularity among viewers. These shows transport us to different eras and provide a glimpse into the past. One such series is “Game of Thrones,” which combines elements of fantasy with medieval history. Another notable series is “Vikings,” which explores the legendary Norse warriors and their conquests. Lastly, “The Crown” offers a fascinating portrayal of the British royal family throughout various decades. Each of these shows has its own unique storytelling style and has garnered a dedicated fan base.
Intriguing historical events portrayed on TV
Television has also brought to life many intriguing historical events through captivating storytelling. One such event is depicted in the series “Chernobyl,” which chronicles the devastating nuclear disaster in 1986. Another notable portrayal is seen in “Band of Brothers,” which follows the journey of an American airborne division during World War II. Additionally, “The Tudors” offers a glimpse into the tumultuous reign of King Henry VIII and his impact on English history. These series not only entertain but also educate viewers about significant moments from the past.
Exploring lesser-known historical figures
Some historical TV series shed light on lesser-known figures who played crucial roles in shaping history. For instance, “Medici: Masters of Florence” delves into the lives of the influential Medici family during the Renaissance period. Another fascinating portrayal is found in “Marco Polo,” which explores the adventures of the famous explorer in 13th-century China. Additionally, “Rome” takes us back to ancient times and showcases the rise and fall of Julius Caesar and the Roman Empire. These series offer a fresh perspective on lesser-explored aspects of history.
