Historical documentaries are a great way to understand history as they really get into the people and events that created the modern world. They combine fiction and truth, providing audience members with an enjoyable way to digest tangled histories. So here are the top 10 historical documentaries every student should watch if they have a passion for history.
1. The Civil War (1990)
The Civil War, directed by Ken Burns, is one of the most-watched documentaries. It features photo essays, diaries, and knowledgeable commentary that bring the American Civil War to life. The nine-part series covers the causes, conflict, and aftermath of the war, giving viewers an in-depth look at one of America’s largest wars.
2. 13th (2016)
Ava DuVernay’s 13th is an intense documentary that explores the issues of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States. The film is named after the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery but permitted forced labor to punish criminal activity. Through historical footage and expert interviews, DuVernay examines how this loophole has been used, especially against African Americans, throughout contemporary US history.
3. The Last Dance (2020)
Technically a sports documentary, “The Last Dance”, is a historical account of the Chicago Bulls’ dominance in the 1990s. After the late Michael Jordan and the Bulls’ final two title campaigns, this show tells a story about fame, ambition, and cooperation that captures a cultural moment in US history.
4. The Fog of War (2003)
The Fog of War, directed by Errol Morris, is a revealing look into the life of Robert S. McNamara, US former Secretary of Defense during the Vietnam War. The documentary explores McNamara’s thoughts about war, what he learned, and how historical developments such as the Second World War and the Cuban Missile Crisis impacted his understanding of war. It’s a fascinating film for those students concerned about military history and morality.
5. They Shall Not Grow Old (2018)
“They Shall Not Grow Old” is Peter Jackson’s unusual documentary about the First World War. Using colorized, restored footage of the era, the film presents an extreme view of trench life. Jackson’s meticulous focus and veterans’ voices add a new depth to an otherwise black-and-white conflict.
6. OJ: Made in America (2016)
Ezra Edelman’s OJ: Made in America isn’t just a continuation of the O.J. Simpson trial; it is an intense discussion of race and US policing. The five-part series tracks Simpson’s career, the murder trial, and the broader cultural and political conflict surrounding the case. It’s a full picture of America in the 1990s and beyond.
7. The World at War (1973)
“The World at War” is a 26-part documentary series offering a close look into the Second World War. It is told by Laurence Olivier and touches on nearly every detail of the war, from the fighting and tactics to everyday life. It remains one of the most in-depth WWII documentary films to date, so all history fans must watch it.
8. For Sama (2019)
“For Sama” is a moving, tragic depiction of the Syrian Civil War through the eyes of Waad Al-Kateab, journalist and mother. The documentary follows her in Aleppo during the war, revealing how terrible the war was for civilians. Given the intimate character of the film, it’s also an evocative and moving historical drama.
9. The Untold Story of the US (2012)
Oliver Stone’s “The Untold History of the United States” is an anti-war narrative. It’s a documentary series about U.S. foreign policy from the Second World War to the Obama administration and how policies adopted by U.S. presidents created the world today. Stone’s take on history tends to be thorny, so the series is worth reflecting on.
10. The Great Hack (2019)
In dramatizing the Cambridge Analytica scandal and how it impacted the 2016 US presidential election, “The Great Hack” investigates technology, privacy, and democracy. It demonstrates how data manipulation had consequences for contemporary politics and transformed how campaigns identified voters, so it’s worth examining to see what the place of digital technologies was in modern history.
To help you choose which documentary to watch, consider the following:
• Era of interest: Focus on documentaries that cover historical periods you are most intrigued by.• Narrative style: Some films take a personal, emotional approach, while others focus on facts and analysis.• Length: Long series like “The World at War” may require more time, while shorter films provide a quicker dive into history.• Directorial approach: Directors like Ken Burns and Ava DuVernay bring unique styles and perspectives.• Cultural context: Look for documentaries that explore how historical events connect to current social and political issues.
If you wish to watch more historical films but lack the time, consider hiring an essay writer. UKWritings is an assignment writing service with years of experience composing unique writing projects. It has expert writers capable of tackling any writing task.
Image Source: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock
