Best Historical TV Series to Watch in 2024

Historical TV series have become a popular choice for entertainment, providing viewers with a glimpse into the past and offering a unique perspective on historical events. These shows allow us to experience different eras, cultures, and events through the eyes of characters who lived through them. In this article, we will be exploring the best historical TV series available today.

When it comes to choosing the best historical TV series, there are several critical factors to consider. First and foremost, it is essential to ensure that the show is historically accurate, portraying events and cultures in a way that is true to their nature. Additionally, the quality of acting, writing, and production value is crucial in creating a compelling and engaging viewing experience.

We spent hours researching and testing various historical TV series to identify the ones that stand out as the best. From epic dramas to intimate character studies, our list includes a diverse range of shows that offer a unique perspective on history. Join us as we explore the best historical TV series available today.

Best Historical TV Series

As avid fans of historical dramas, we have scoured the depths of Amazon to bring you the best historical TV series available for streaming. From epic battles to royal intrigues, these shows will transport you to different eras and immerse you in the rich history of different cultures. Our selection includes both critically acclaimed and fan-favorite series, so you can find the perfect show to binge-watch. Without further ado, here are our top picks for the best historical TV series on Amazon.

Hell on Wheels: The Complete Series

If you’re a history buff looking for an entertaining and informative TV series, Hell on Wheels: The Complete Series is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The series provides a unique and fascinating look at post-Civil War America, exploring the construction of the first transcontinental railroad, the immigrant experience, and the plight of newly emancipated African-Americans during reconstruction.
• The characters are well-developed and interesting, with excellent performances from the cast, particularly Anson Mount in the lead role.
• The bonus content included in the DVD box set offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the series, as well as additional featurettes and character profiles.

Cons

• The series can be quite violent and graphic at times, which may not be suitable for all viewers.
• Some viewers may find the pacing slow or uneven, particularly in the later seasons.
• While the series is based on historical events, it does take some artistic liberties with the story.

Overall, we would highly recommend Hell on Wheels: The Complete Series to anyone interested in American history or Westerns. The series offers a compelling look at a pivotal moment in American history, with excellent performances and bonus content that adds to the viewing experience.

In terms of the series itself, the first few seasons are particularly strong, with well-crafted storylines and character development. The later seasons can be a bit more uneven, but still offer plenty of engaging moments.

If you’re a fan of Westerns or historical dramas, Hell on Wheels: The Complete Series is definitely worth adding to your collection. The DVD box set is a great value, with plenty of bonus content to keep you entertained long after the series has ended.

Centennial: The Complete Series

If you’re a fan of historical dramas, Centennial: The Complete Series is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• With over 26 hours of content, this series provides a comprehensive look at the history of a fictional American town.
• The ensemble cast, which includes Richard Chamberlain, Robert Conrad, Timothy Dalton, Mark Harmon, and many others, delivers strong performances throughout.
• The series is based on a best-selling novel by James Michener, so the writing is top-notch and the story is engaging.

Cons

• At over 20 hours long, the series can be a bit of a commitment to watch in its entirety.
• While the series covers a lot of ground, some viewers may find that it moves too quickly through certain periods of history.
• Some of the special effects and production values may seem dated to modern viewers.

Overall, we think that Centennial: The Complete Series is a great choice for anyone looking for a well-crafted historical drama. The series may be a bit long for some viewers, but the strong performances and engaging story make it well worth the investment. If you’re a fan of the genre, be sure to check it out.

Victoria

If you’re looking for a historical TV series that is both captivating and informative, Victoria is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The acting is superb, especially Jenna Coleman’s portrayal of Queen Victoria.
• The costumes and set design are stunning and really transport you back in time.
• The storyline is engaging and keeps you hooked from episode to episode.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the pacing to be slow at times.
• The historical accuracy has been called into question by some historians.
• The show can be a bit melodramatic at times.

Overall, we highly recommend Victoria for anyone interested in historical dramas. Despite its flaws, the show is a well-crafted and entertaining look into the life of Queen Victoria and the world she lived in.

In the first season, we follow Victoria as she ascends to the throne at a young age and navigates the challenges of ruling a country while also trying to find love and form meaningful relationships. Along the way, we meet a colorful cast of characters, including her husband Prince Albert and her trusted advisor Lord Melbourne.

One of the things that sets Victoria apart from other historical dramas is its attention to detail when it comes to the costumes and set design. The show really transports you back in time and makes you feel like you’re right there in the 19th century.

Of course, no show is perfect, and Victoria does have its flaws. Some viewers may find the pacing to be slow at times, and the historical accuracy has been called into question by some historians. Additionally, the show can be a bit melodramatic at times, with plot twists that feel a bit contrived.

Despite these issues, we still feel that Victoria is a must-watch for anyone interested in history or just looking for a good drama to sink their teeth into. So grab some popcorn and settle in for a journey back in time with Queen Victoria and her court.

The White Queen

If you’re a fan of historical dramas, The White Queen is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The acting is superb, with Rebecca Ferguson delivering a standout performance as the lead character.
• The show is beautifully shot, with stunning cinematography that captures the essence of the time period.
• The storyline is engaging and well-written, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you hooked.

Cons

• The show can be quite graphic at times, with nudity, violence, and sexual content that may not be suitable for all viewers.
• Some of the historical accuracy has been called into question, so it may not be the best choice for those looking for a completely authentic portrayal of the time period.
• The show only lasted for one season, which may be disappointing for viewers who become invested in the characters and storyline.

Overall, we would recommend The White Queen to anyone who enjoys historical dramas with a bit of intrigue and romance. Just be aware that it can be quite graphic at times, and may not be suitable for all viewers.

The English

If you’re a fan of historical dramas, The English is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• Emily Blunt’s performance is outstanding.
• The show’s attention to detail in recreating the time period is impressive.
• The storyline is engaging and keeps you hooked.

Cons

• The content advisory is accurate – this show is not suitable for children or those sensitive to mature themes.
• The pacing can be slow at times.
• Some of the characters lack depth and development.

We thoroughly enjoyed watching The English. Emily Blunt delivers a captivating performance as Queen Victoria, and the supporting cast does an excellent job as well. The show’s historical accuracy is impressive, and the attention to detail in the costumes and set design really brings the time period to life.

However, it’s worth noting that the show does contain mature themes and is not suitable for all audiences. Additionally, some viewers may find the pacing to be slow at times, and some of the characters lack depth and development.

Overall, if you’re a fan of historical dramas and don’t mind mature themes, we highly recommend giving The English a watch.

When Calls the Heart

If you’re looking for a heartwarming historical drama, When Calls the Heart is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The characters are well-developed and likable, making it easy to become invested in their stories.
• The show is set in a charming small town, which adds to the cozy and nostalgic feel.
• The historical accuracy is impressive, with attention paid to details like costumes and set design.

Cons

• The pacing can be slow at times, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
• Some of the storylines can feel predictable or cliché.
• The show can be a bit saccharine at times, which may not appeal to those looking for a grittier historical drama.

We thoroughly enjoyed watching When Calls the Heart. The characters are endearing, and we found ourselves rooting for them throughout the series. The small town setting is quaint and charming, and we appreciated the attention to historical detail. However, we did find ourselves wishing for a bit more action at times, as the pacing can be slow. Additionally, some of the storylines felt a bit too predictable or formulaic. Overall, though, we highly recommend this show to anyone who enjoys heartwarming historical dramas.

If you’re interested in checking out When Calls the Heart for yourself, you can find it on Amazon here.

Lessons in Chemistry: A Novel

If you’re a fan of historical fiction, Lessons in Chemistry: A Novel is a must-have audiobook for your collection.

Pros

• The audiobook is narrated by three talented actresses, making it easy to follow along and get lost in the story.
• The story is set in the 1950s and 60s, providing a fascinating glimpse into the world of science and the challenges faced by women during that time period.
• The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to become invested in their lives and struggles.

Cons

• The story can be emotionally heavy at times, and may not be suitable for those looking for a light read.
• The pacing can be slow in some parts, which may not be appealing to those looking for a fast-paced story.
• The audiobook is almost 12 hours long, which may be too long for some listeners.

Lessons in Chemistry: A Novel is a captivating story that combines science and fiction to create a unique and engaging experience. The audiobook is well-narrated, making it easy to follow along and get lost in the story. The characters are likable and relatable, and the historical setting provides a fascinating glimpse into the challenges faced by women during that time period. Overall, we highly recommend this audiobook to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and engaging historical fiction novel.

We Were the Lucky Ones: A Novel

If you’re looking for a captivating historical fiction novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat, We Were the Lucky Ones is a great choice.

Pros

• The story is based on true events and provides a unique perspective on World War II and the Holocaust.
• The characters are well-developed and their struggles and triumphs are compelling.
• The writing is beautiful and evocative, making it easy to get lost in the story.

Cons

• The subject matter is heavy and can be emotionally difficult to read.
• The story jumps around between different characters and time periods, which can be confusing at times.
• Some readers may find the ending unsatisfying.

We Were the Lucky Ones tells the story of the Kurc family, a Jewish family living in Poland during World War II. As the Nazis invade and their lives are turned upside down, the Kurcs are forced to separate and navigate their way through the horrors of war.

Despite the heavy subject matter, the book is a page-turner that will keep you invested in the characters and their fates. The writing is beautiful and evocative, transporting you to a different time and place.

However, the story can be emotionally difficult to read at times, and some readers may find the ending unsatisfying. Additionally, the jumping around between different characters and time periods can be confusing, though it does provide a unique perspective on the war.

Overall, if you’re looking for a well-written, engaging historical fiction novel, We Were the Lucky Ones is definitely worth a read.

The Chosen: Come and See: a novel based on Season 2 of the critically acclaimed TV series (The Chosen, 2)

If you’re a fan of The Chosen TV series, then you’ll definitely want to check out this novel based on Season 2. It offers an in-depth look at the characters and events that you won’t find anywhere else.

Pros

• Provides more details than the TV series
• Follows the episodes closely
• Gives valuable insight into the characters’ thoughts

Cons

• May not be as engaging if you haven’t watched the TV series
• Some readers may find it too religious
• The writing style may not be for everyone

If you’re looking for a deeper understanding of The Chosen TV series, then this novel is a great choice. It follows the episodes closely and provides more details than you’ll find on the screen. You’ll also get valuable insight into the characters’ thoughts, which can help you better understand their motivations and actions.

One potential downside of this novel is that it may not be as engaging if you haven’t watched the TV series. While the writing is good, it’s not necessarily strong enough to stand on its own. Additionally, some readers may find the religious content too heavy-handed, although this is to be expected given the subject matter.

Overall, we recommend The Chosen: Come and See to fans of the TV series who want to dive deeper into the story. It’s a well-written novel that provides valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the characters. Just be aware that it may not be as engaging if you haven’t watched the TV series, and some readers may find the religious content too heavy-handed.

Vikings

If you’re looking for an engaging historical TV series, Vikings is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The show offers a well-researched portrayal of Viking society and culture, with a focus on their rituals, beliefs, and way of life.
• The acting is top-notch, with standout performances from Katheryn Winnick, Gustaf Skarsgård, and Alexander Ludwig.
• The series features plenty of action and drama, with intense battle scenes and political intrigue keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the violence and sexual content to be too graphic or disturbing.
• The storyline can be slow at times, with certain episodes feeling like filler material.
• The show’s historical accuracy has been called into question by some historians, who argue that it takes too many liberties with the facts.

Overall, we would recommend Vikings to anyone who enjoys historical dramas with strong characters and compelling storylines. While it may not be suitable for all viewers due to its graphic content, those who can handle the violence and sexual themes will find a lot to enjoy in this well-crafted series.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best historical TV series, there are a few factors to consider in order to ensure that you get the most out of your viewing experience. Here are some key features to look for when selecting a historical TV series:

Genre

First and foremost, consider the genre of historical TV series that you enjoy the most. Do you prefer dramas, comedies, or action-packed series? Are you interested in a particular time period or historical event? By narrowing down your preferences, you can make a more informed decision about which series to watch.

Accuracy

Another important factor to consider is the accuracy of the historical events depicted in the series. While some shows take creative liberties with historical events, others strive for accuracy. If you are interested in learning about history while being entertained, then accuracy may be an important factor for you.

Production Value

The production value of a historical TV series can greatly impact your viewing experience. Look for series that have high-quality sets, costumes, and special effects. This can help transport you back in time and make the viewing experience more immersive.

Cast and Crew

Finally, consider the cast and crew of the series. Are there any actors or directors that you admire? Look for series that feature talented individuals who can bring the historical events to life in a compelling way.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best historical TV series for your preferences and needs. Happy viewing!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which historical TV series are considered the most accurate depictions of the past?

There are several historical TV series that are known for their accuracy in depicting the past. Some of the most notable ones include “Band of Brothers,” “The Crown,” “Mad Men,” “Rome,” and “Boardwalk Empire.” These series have been praised for their attention to detail in terms of historical events, costumes, and settings.

What are the top-rated historical dramas according to IMDB?

IMDB is a popular website that ranks movies and TV series based on user ratings. Some of the top-rated historical dramas on IMDB include “Chernobyl,” “Game of Thrones,” “Breaking Bad,” “The Sopranos,” and “The Wire.” These series have been praised for their gripping storylines, complex characters, and attention to detail.

Which historical TV series have gained the most popularity worldwide?

There are several historical TV series that have gained worldwide popularity. Some of the most popular ones include “Downton Abbey,” “Vikings,” “Outlander,” “The Tudors,” and “Peaky Blinders.” These series have been praised for their engaging storylines, stunning visuals, and talented cast.

What are some must-watch historical dramas currently available on Netflix?

Netflix is known for its vast collection of TV series and movies, including several historical dramas. Some of the must-watch historical dramas currently available on Netflix include “The Crown,” “Narcos,” “Stranger Things,” “The Last Kingdom,” and “Mindhunter.” These series have been praised for their excellent storytelling, strong performances, and stunning visuals.

Can you list some critically acclaimed historical TV series from different countries?

There are several critically acclaimed historical TV series from different countries. Some of the most notable ones include “Borgen” from Denmark, “The Americans” from the United States, “The Handmaid’s Tale” from Canada, “Peaky Blinders” from the United Kingdom, and “Babylon Berlin” from Germany. These series have been praised for their unique storytelling, strong performances, and attention to detail.

What are the most successful historical TV series in terms of viewership and ratings?

There are several historical TV series that have been successful in terms of viewership and ratings. Some of the most successful ones include “Game of Thrones,” “The Crown,” “Breaking Bad,” “The Sopranos,” and “The Walking Dead.” These series have been praised for their gripping storylines, complex characters, and stunning visuals.