A History of Britain (2000 – 2002)

Name: A History of Britain
Genre: Documentary
Released: 2000-09-30
Duration: 60 min
Rating: 8.3
Cast: Michael Kitchen, Lindsay Duncan, Simon Schama

2000 • 3 seasons • Documentary

On September 25, 2026

#7073▼ 3866

7073rd by Pulse TV show online

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Where to Watch A History of Britain

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Ended

Documentary

Sep 30, 2000 – Jun 18, 2002•United Kingdom•3 Seasons•15 Episodes

Type: Scripted

Network

LanguageEnglish

W2TCH Rating84%Good

Nominated for 4 BAFTA 2 wins & 5 nominations total

Last aired

The Two Winstons (1910 - present)

Aired Jun 18, 2002

S3:E4

Synopsis

Spanning from the Stone Age to 2000, Simon Schama’s Complete History of Britain isn't a definitive record of the events that shaped the British Isles. Instead, he tells a vivid and gripping story, avoiding academic jargon by focusing on the key individuals at the heart of history. While some historians might disagree with his emphasis on influential figures over broader trends, this approach makes for a far more enthralling narrative. Schama challenges the notion of a calm and measured British history, revealing it as bloody, chaotic, and often teetering on the brink of dramatic change. Recurring themes include conflicts between Scots and Irish, and Catholic/Protestant struggles—a legacy that continues into the new millennium. As Britain evolves into a constitutional monarchy, Schama shifts his focus from royalty to thinkers like Orwell, but with his direct style and powerful visuals, he brings history vividly to life, as if it happened just yesterday.