Watch A History of Ancient Britain

A History of Ancient Britain is a captivating British television show that explores the ancient history of Britain from the end of the last Ice Age, through the Bronze Age and Iron Age, up until the Roman Conquest. The series comprises four episodes, each approximately one hour long, and it was first broadcasted in 2011-2012. Neil Oliver, Alison Sheridan, and Paul Bahn take viewers on a remarkable journey through time, bringing to life the people, cultures, and landscapes that shaped ancient Britain.

Throughout the series, Neil Oliver, a Scottish archaeologist, historian, and television presenter, serves as the main host and narrator, taking the audience on a personal and engaging journey through ancient Britain. Oliver is passionate and knowledgeable about the subject matter, and his expert commentary and storytelling skills provide an insightful and accessible introduction to the topic.

Alison Sheridan, a Scottish archaeologist and historian, is another key contributor to the show. She specializes in the Bronze Age and Iron Age periods and offers invaluable insights into the ways of life, beliefs, and practices of the ancient Britons. Her knowledge and experience in reconstructions and experimental archaeology bring a practical and hands-on approach to the series, complementing Oliver's more narrative-driven style.

Paul Bahn, an anthropologist and archaeologist, offers further expert analysis and commentary to the series. He has written numerous books on prehistoric art, and his expertise in rock art and megaliths, in particular, adds an extra dimension to the show. Bahn provides a fascinating insight into the artistic and symbolic expressions of the ancient Britons, uncovering the hidden meanings and messages behind the standing stones, rock art, and other forms of prehistoric art.

Each episode of the series focuses on a particular period of ancient British history, tracing the major events, characters, and cultures that shaped the landscape of the time. The episodes are presented in a chronological order, beginning with the end of the last Ice Age, around 10,000 BC, and ending with the Roman invasion of Britain in AD 43. Along the way, the series covers a wide range of topics, including the first human arrivals in Britain, the transition from hunting and gathering to agriculture, the development of metalworking and trade, the emergence of complex societies and kingdoms, and the arrival of the Romans.

The show achieves a balance between the latest archaeological discoveries, scientific research, and historical records, creating a dynamic and informative perspective on British history. The use of state-of-the-art digital CGI animations and reconstructions helps to visualize the ancient landscapes, buildings, tools, and artifacts, bringing the past vividly to life.

One of the strengths of A History of Ancient Britain is the way in which it places the British narrative into a broader historical context. The series contextualizes ancient Britain within the wider European and global contexts, highlighting the connections, influences, and exchanges that took place between different cultures and regions. This approach helps to break down the narrow nationalistic perspectives often associated with ancient history and provides a more dynamic and inclusive understanding of the past.

In conclusion, A History of Ancient Britain is an engaging and highly informative television series that offers a fascinating insight into the ancient history of Britain. The series is expertly presented by Neil Oliver, Alison Sheridan, and Paul Bahn, whose knowledge, enthusiasm, and complementary approaches make for an informative and entertaining exploration of the subject. Whether you are a history buff or simply curious about the past, this series offers an accessible and compelling introduction to the ancient world.

A History of Ancient Britain is a series that is currently running and has 2 seasons (5 episodes). The series first aired on January 1, 2011.