In the wide world of television series, historical tv shows are, comparatively, a tragically small and underrated sector. Now, I’m not just saying this because I, myself, am a huge history nerd (but that is part of the reason) but because people need to know you can have an awesome shows that not only satisfies your craving for entertainment but gives you a peek into the past as well. So here is a brief list of historically oriented TV shows that can appeal to anyone from the head of a university history department to the everyday joe.
TURN: Washington’s Spies
Based on a bestselling nonfiction book of the same name, this tv show is set in Revolutionary War-era America. It follows a cabbage farmer, a swashbuckling sailor, a Yale educated Continental cavalryman, and a Quaker torn between political principle and family loyalty, General George Washington himself and an exceptionally resourceful female tavern keeper. This unlikely group of people, with the help of ciphers, dead drops, and messages hidden in eggs, might just turn the tide of the war and lay the foundation for modern espionage. Warning, this show causes immense binging!
The Tudors
Remember King Henry VII from high school history? Well, he’s back, and looking better than ever thanks to Irish actor Jonathan Rhys Meyers. This show, though it’s named after the English Tudor dynasty, follows the early reign of King Henry VII. This series looks at Henry’s famous female companions and delves into the personal relationships between the King and his court and between the court members themselves. Notable for its stunning historical detail and and renowned historical accuracy, this show is perfect for a weekend binge.
Vikings
Taking place in the brutal and mysterious world of the 10th century, this historical drama encapsulates the rise and apex of the Vikings through Ragnar and his bloodline. Encompassing Scandinavia, England, and the rest of the known world, the show explores how the Vikings subsequently changed it and sailed, pillaged, and fought their way into the history books. Plus, if you’re still harbouring reservations about the historical accuracy of the show (I do realize I am perhaps one of three people with this problem) you’ll be happy to know that the very same historian who consulted on The Tudors worked his considerable magic on this show a well.
Downton Abbey
Beginning just after the sinking of the Titanic in 1912, this historical drama chronicles the lives of the Crowley family and their servants in their country Edwardian home in Yorkshire England. At first glance it sounds like a snooze feast, but in reality this show is an emotional, and gripping rollercoaster ride that gives a unique perspective into the lives of people both upstairs and down at the turn of the century.
Rome
An HBO masterpiece, this show follows, predominantly, two Rome soldiers as they are swept up into massive historical events that encompass, political intrigue, the death of an empire and the birth of the mighty empire that is still studied today. Highly vibrant, immersive and honest in its depiction of the highest echelons of the ancient world this series is a great way to throw yourself into the embrace of period tv shows
Miss Fisher’s Mysteries
Murder, jazz, sex, and feminism. Can you think of anything better? This Australian produced series follows the the escapades of Private Investigator Phryne Fisher, a woman renowned for keen eye, cunning wit, and taste for adventure. With her pearl plated pistol in hand Miss fisher fights solves crime and fights injustice at all levels of society in the opulent 1920s.
Peaky Blinders
I mean, we’ve all the days were you just need to watch something a little intense to spice things up. Let me tell you, Peaky Blinders with it’s grit, despair, and hedonism has got your back. Taking place in 1919 in the aftermath of World War I, wartime hero Thomas Shelby and his family run one of the most notorious gangs in northern England, the Peaky Blinders. This show follows the Shelby family as Thomas seizes opportunities to advance in the deep, dark world of crime.
And there you go, bringing history to life, and even feeding your noggin a fact or two. When you’ve got a weekend or a long, empty, winter break, check out these shows, you won’t be disappointed. Who knows, maybe you’ll join us history nerds to take on the world!