Watch Europe in Chaos

Europe in Chaos is a captivating and insightful documentary series from Smithsonian Channel, released in 2019, that explores the key moments and movements of political turmoil in Europe, and their profound and lasting impact on the continent and the wider world. Over the course of six episodes, Europe in Chaos charts the rise and fall of various revolutionary movements, governments, and leaders throughout the 20th century, from the rise of fascism and the Second World War, to the fall of the Soviet Union and the aftermath of the Arab Spring. Through a combination of archival footage, expert analysis, and first-person accounts, viewers are taken on a journey through some of the most significant moments in European history, exploring the social, cultural, and economic forces that have shaped the continent's past, present, and future.

The opening episode, "The End of Europe," sets the stage for the series, detailing the impact of the First World War and the Treaty of Versailles on the European continent. From there, the series delves into the rise of totalitarianism, tracing the roots of fascism and Nazism in Germany, Italy, and Spain, and examining the devastating consequences of the Second World War. The series also explores the impact of the Cold War on European politics, culture, and society, and the role of the European Union in shaping the future of the continent.

One of the standout episodes of the series is "The Fall of Communism," which charts the downfall of the Soviet Union and the impact of the Velvet Revolution in Czechoslovakia. Through interviews with key figures such as Vaclav Havel and Lech Walesa, viewers gain an intimate understanding of the conditions that led to the collapse of the Soviet bloc, and the hopes and fears of those who lived through this tumultuous period. The episode also highlights the continuing challenges facing former Soviet states, particularly in terms of economic and social inequality.

Another fascinating aspect of the series is its exploration of the impact of migration and refugees on European society. Through interviews with activists, politicians, and refugees themselves, the series sheds light on the ongoing debate around immigration and border control, and the ways in which this issue is shaping political discourse across the continent. The episode "The New Nationalism" explores the rise of far-right political parties in countries like Hungary and Poland, and the ways in which these parties are tapping into anxieties around identity and belonging in a rapidly changing world.

Throughout the series, Europe in Chaos remains firmly focused on the human experience of political upheaval. The final episode, "The Price of Freedom," brings together first-person accounts from across the continent, exploring both the triumphs and tragedies of democracy in Europe. From the fall of the Berlin Wall to the attacks on the Charlie Hebdo offices in Paris, the series paints a vivid picture of the complex and challenging realities of political life in Europe, and the resilience of its people in the face of adversity.

Overall, Europe in Chaos is an engaging and thought-provoking series that offers a fresh and insightful perspective on some of the most significant moments in European history. By interweaving political analysis with personal stories, the series captures the full complexity of the European experience, and offers a nuanced and thought-provoking reflection on the challenges and opportunities facing the continent today.

Europe in Chaos is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (2 episodes). The series first aired on March 28, 2019.