Watch The Story of Wales

2012
1 Season
8.0 (105)

The Story of Wales is a six-part documentary series from BBC that takes viewers through the history of Wales, from prehistoric times to present day. Hosted by Welsh journalist and newsreader Huw Edwards, the show features interviews with local historians, archaeologists, and experts in Welsh culture and tradition.

Each episode of The Story of Wales explores a particular period in Welsh history. The series begins with the earliest known human settlements in Wales around 230,000 years ago and covers the Roman conquest, the arrival of Christianity, the Welsh Princes, and the industrial revolution. The final episode examines the modern era and the political and social changes that have shaped contemporary Wales.

Throughout the series, viewers are treated to stunning footage of Welsh landscapes and architecture, including the country's picturesque castles, mountains, and coastlines. Archival images and reenactments bring the past to life, and the experts featured in the show provide detailed insights into the people and events that have shaped Welsh history.

One of the strengths of The Story of Wales is its focus on the often-overlooked contributions of Welsh people to world history. For example, the series highlights the significant role played by Welsh soldiers in both world wars and the impact of Welsh industrialists on the global economy. The program also explores the rich cultural heritage of Wales, including its unique language, music, and folklore.

Host Huw Edwards is a compelling and knowledgeable guide throughout the series. A native Welsh speaker, he brings a personal connection to the material and a deep understanding of the country's history and traditions. Edwards is joined by Lee Jessup, a local historian who provides additional commentary and insight, and Michael Austin, an expert in Welsh archaeology who shares his knowledge of the country's ancient and medieval past.

Overall, The Story of Wales is a fascinating and engaging exploration of Welsh history that will appeal to anyone interested in the country's rich cultural heritage. The series offers a comprehensive overview of Welsh history that is both informative and visually stunning, making it a must-watch for anyone with an interest in British history or culture.

The Story of Wales is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (6 episodes). The series first aired on June 1, 2012.

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Seasons

6. Wales and Britain

July 6, 2012

In the last seventy years, Wales changes more rapidly than ever. In this final episode, a Welshman battles to set up Britain's most cherished institution, the NHS, the British parliament votes to drown a Welsh valley, a new generation of sporting heroes sets the flags waving and television itself becomes part of the story of Wales.

5. A New Beginning

June 29, 2012

It's boom time as Wales becomes known the world over for one particular product - Welsh steam coal, the best you can get. In the space of 50 years, 'black gold' builds a new Wales. The coalfield pulls in hundreds of thousands of migrants with a different language and culture, becoming a bustling modern world of its own. Yet no sooner has Wales found itself at the centre of global trade, than the Depression causes an industrial crash with a bitter social fallout.

4. Furnace of Change

June 22, 2012

The Industrial Revolution turns Wales into a global player once again with their copper and iron mines. From Parys Mountain on Anglesey to Copperopolis, Swansea, in the south, the copper trade transforms the landscape and economy. Iron does the same for Merthyr Tydfil, making it a world-class centre of technology. This brave new Wales fuels massive social turmoil, riots and uprisings - and leads to the first national demands for democracy and workers' rights

3. England and Wales

June 15, 2012

It is 1485: a young nobleman sails to the land of his fathers from exile in France. His mission - to capture the English crown. For the first time, a self-proclaimed Welshman will be king of England. And so begins the reign of the Tudors. Under the reign of Henry I Wales becomes united with England.

2. Power Struggles

June 8, 2012

This episode of The Story of Wales spans seven centuries, from the building of a great frontier to Owain Glyndwr's epic struggle for independence. We meet the medieval kings who shaped Wales and watch a nation emerge out of their lust for power and land.

1. Making of Wales

June 1, 2012

The story begins with the drama of the earliest-known human burial in Western Europe. Huw delves into the biggest prehistoric copper mine in the world, and looks at the importance of Wales for the Bronze age. He visits the mesmerising site of an Iron Age hillfort and reveals the true scale of the Roman occupation.

Description

Where to Watch The Story of Wales

The Story of Wales is available for streaming on the BBC website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch The Story of Wales on demand at Amazon.