Watch The Second World War: Personal Stories of Unsung Heroes

  • 2015
  • 2 Seasons

The Second World War: Personal Stories of Unsung Heroes is a captivating historical docuseries that delivers powerful firsthand accounts of the experiences and sacrifices of ordinary individuals who made extraordinary contributions to the war effort. Through a combination of archival footage, reenactments, and interviews with surviving veterans and their families, the series offers a unique and intimate perspective on the various fronts of the deadliest conflict in human history.

The series takes a chronological approach to the war, beginning with the tense political climate that led to the outbreak of hostilities in 1939 and concluding with the Allied victory in 1945. The episodes are structured around specific events and campaigns, such as the Battle of Britain, the D-Day invasion, and the Pacific island hopping campaign, and each episode features a range of personal stories that illuminate the human experiences behind the headlines.

One of the strengths of The Second World War: Personal Stories of Unsung Heroes is its focus on the often overlooked contributions of individuals who did not hold high-ranking positions or receive media attention. From the factory workers who produced the weapons and equipment that fueled the war effort, to the nurses who tended to the wounded on the front lines, to the civilians who endured bombing raids and rationing, the series provides a vivid portrait of the diverse roles that people played in the war.

The series also gives due attention to the international scope of the war, featuring stories from soldiers and civilians from a wide range of countries, including Britain, the United States, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan. By highlighting the experiences of people from both Allied and Axis powers, the series provides a nuanced and complex view of the war that avoids simplistic categorizations of heroes and villains.

Another notable aspect of The Second World War: Personal Stories of Unsung Heroes is its use of innovative technology, including high-definition footage and 3D animations, to bring the archival material to life. The series also employs expert historians and military analysts to provide insightful context and analysis of the events depicted, and to offer a deeper understanding of the strategic and political factors that shaped the war.

Overall, The Second World War: Personal Stories of Unsung Heroes is a gripping and emotionally resonant exploration of one of the defining events of the 20th century. By centering on the personal stories of ordinary individuals, the series provides a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the enduring spirit of courage and resilience that sustained those who lived through it. Whether you are a seasoned history buff or a casual viewer, this series is not to be missed.

The Second World War: Personal Stories of Unsung Heroes is a series that is currently running and has 2 seasons (12 episodes). The series first aired on September 1, 2015.

Filter by Source

Seasons
Merchant Marine Paul Francis Goercke
5. Merchant Marine Paul Francis Goercke
April 3, 2017
While Navy veteran Paul Goercke rests with his family in his plot at the Golden Gate National Cemetery, he is survived and remembered by his pioneering American Legion Post 448, the only predominantly LGBTQ post in the nation.
Who is Weary Willie?
4. Who is Weary Willie?
April 1, 2021
"Who is Weary Willie?" explores the life of the famous circus character Weary Willie and his story tied to controversy and confusion over identity between his creator, Emmett Kelly Sr., and his son, Emmett Kelly Jr.
A Collection of My Father
3. A Collection of My Father
April 1, 2021
When our loved ones pass they live on through our memories, A Collection of My Father tells the story of Vincent Faulls, a soldier, husband and father, through the eyes of his daughter. The memories of her father as an entrepreneur and dancer bring light to the story of an everyday man forging his way in our world.
Bataan Death March
2. Bataan Death March
April 1, 2021
Within hours of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, bombs rained down on U.S. and Filipino forces in the Philippines. After months of vicious fighting allied forces surrendered on the island only to be met with a brutal death march to P.O.W. camps dotted across the islands. The surrender of the Philippines, now almost forgotten in U.S. history is commemorated in the Philippines every year.
David Gan: European Theater
1. David Gan: European Theater
July 2, 2012
A young David Gan joins the WWII effort, eager to serve his country. Feelings of exclusion as a Chinese-American disappear in the Army. After experiencing the loss of so many fallen comrades, David dedicates his life to those who never came home.
Description
Where to Watch The Second World War: Personal Stories of Unsung Heroes
The Second World War: Personal Stories of Unsung Heroes is available for streaming on the website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch The Second World War: Personal Stories of Unsung Heroes on demand at Amazon.
  • Premiere Date
    September 1, 2015