The Top 10 History Channels on YouTube
Discovering fascinating insights into history has never been easier, thanks to the treasure trove of information available on YouTube. From Roman Emperors to Victorian serial killers, the Yukon gold rush to the Russian Revolution, you can delve into virtually any historical topic that piques your interest.
However, with the abundance of channels out there, it’s crucial to sift through them for reliable and entertaining content. To save you the hassle, we’ve curated a list of the top ten history channels on YouTube that not only provide accurate information but also make the learning experience enjoyable.
- Timeline – World History Documentaries: If you’re a fan of long-form documentaries, Timeline is your go-to channel. Offering high-quality, in-depth content on subjects like the 1942 tank defense of Stalingrad and the rediscovery of a lost medieval hospital, these videos typically range from 45 to 90 minutes. Some delve even deeper, like the three-hour exploration of the Americas before Columbus. As part of the History Hit Network, Timeline ensures a comprehensive historical experience.
- Oversimplified: For those seeking compact yet informative introductions to complex historical events, Oversimplified is a fantastic resource. Using animations and humor, this channel provides crash courses on topics such as the Napoleonic Wars and the French Revolution, with videos usually spanning 15 to 30 minutes.
- Historia Civilis: Delve into the intricacies of Ancient Rome with Historia Civilis. This channel offers a deep dive into the history of the Roman Empire, covering topics like the Roman Senate, the Invasion of Gaul, and the assassination of Julius Caesar.
- Feature History: If you prefer quick, no-nonsense introductions to specific chapters in history, Feature History is the channel for you. Focusing on armed conflicts from the First Boer War to the Second Opium War, this channel also tackles more recent topics like Saddam’s Iraq and the history of military 4x4s.
- History: Fans of the History Channel will find a familiar home on YouTube with History’s division. From the hidden labyrinth under Rome’s Colosseum to trying out Viking workouts and recreating dishes from the Last Supper, History brings ancient practices to life in an entertaining and informative manner.
- Weird History: Uncover the quirky side of history with Weird History. Exploring topics like Ronald Reagan’s use of astrology, mysterious diseases that wiped out the Aztecs, and the peculiar appearance of babies in medieval art, this channel provides answers to questions that will leave you saying, “No way!”
- The History Guy: Discover forgotten historical figures and events with The History Guy. From the Wild West to aviation, this channel features 5 to 10-minute videos that delve into aspects of history that might otherwise be overlooked.
- The Armchair Historian: Whether it’s the Battle of Okinawa or daily life in East Berlin, The Armchair Historian offers fantastic animated videos covering a wide array of historical subjects. Videos typically range from 10 to 30 minutes, with some subjects explored in multiple parts.
- Decoding the Unknown: While not strictly a history-only channel, Decoding the Unknown offers fantastic historical content. Dive into mysteries, from the disappearance of the Irish Crown Jewels to the secret Nazi base in the Arctic.
- See U in History / Mythology: For beautifully illustrated insights into history from ancient times to the 19th century, turn to See U in History / Mythology. This channel not only explores historical events and figures but also delves into mythologies from different time periods and geographical regions. With the addition of YouTube Shorts, you can even get a quick history pick-me-up.
In conclusion, whether you’re a history buff or just looking to expand your knowledge, these ten YouTube channels offer a diverse and engaging journey through the annals of time. Happy watching!