6 captivating historical documentaries to stream on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar

They say history repeats itself and we can all learn a lesson or two from the past. You don’t need to be a history buff to enjoy these riveting titles—the great storytelling will keep you hooked. From world events to an exploration of our own country, these historical documentaries will have you time-traveling from your couch. 

This 13-part docu-series uses both original and coloured rare restored footage of the battles of the four-year-long second World War. Stay committed, it’s worth it. And if you're keen to stay on the subject of the world war, continue on to watch The Last Days, stories of five Hungarian Jews during Hitler’s reign, or #Anne Frank Parallel Stories, retold by Oscar legend Helen Mirren. 

Streaming on Netflix

Historian Dan Jones takes you through the histories of some of Britain’s most iconic castles. Across two seasons historian Dan Jones explores everything from the 1,000-year history of the Tower of London to the grim executions at Lancaster castles. This is a real treat for all Anglophiles. 

Streaming on Netflix

This time last year Elon Musk’s SpaceX program became the first private company to send humans into space. But the journey into space exploration is lined with heartbreak and tragedy. With in-depth interviews and archival footage, this is an emotional telling of NASA’s doomed 1986 space shuttle disaster. 

Streaming on Netflix

Over 20 years old, but relevant even today, this six-part series traces the birth of a civilisation and its evolution into the world’s largest democracies. From the first migration of humans to India, all the way to independence, each 55-minute episode will have you hooked. 

Streaming on Amazon Prime Video   

The images of the burning towers have forever been imprinted into the memory of the world and are hard to forget. This documentary traces the many calls that were made from the towers that fateful day. Trigger warning—this one is strictly for the brave-hearted. 

Streaming on Amazon Prime Video

This documentary is for those of us who have an interest in fashion history. It is the story of the man behind iconic American brand Ralph Lauren, one of the biggest success stories in the world. Put on that little black dress, sit back and take notes. Bonus: it also features a special cameo by Vogue's Global Editorial Director Anna Wintour. 

Streaming on Disney+ Hotstar

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