Watch The World at War: From Hitler to Hiroshima

The World at War: From Hitler to Hiroshima is a documentary series that provides a comprehensive look at the events leading up to and during the Second World War. The series explores the many different angles of this global conflict and covers the war from a variety of perspectives. Produced by Thames Television and first broadcast in 1973, the series features interviews with various key figures from the war, including military leaders, politicians, journalists, and civilians.

The show begins by examining the political climate in Europe leading up to the outbreak of war. It delves into the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party in Germany, and how their aggressive policies led to the invasion of Poland and the start of hostilities. From there, the series covers a range of topics, including the battles of the Western and Eastern fronts, the war in the Pacific, and the bombing campaigns on Germany and Japan.

The World at War: From Hitler to Hiroshima does not shy away from the horrors of war. The show features footage of the Holocaust, as well as interviews with survivors and liberators of concentration camps. It also covers the bombing of civilian populations, including the firebombing of Dresden and the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The show is not just about the military campaigns, but also the impact of the war on ordinary people.

While the series covers many of the key events of the Second World War, it also provides an in-depth look at lesser-known aspects of the conflict. For example, the series covers the Battle of the Atlantic, the role of the Resistance in occupied Europe, and the contributions of civilians on the home front. The show also examines the strategies and decision-making processes of various world leaders, including Winston Churchill, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Joseph Stalin.

One of the strengths of The World at War: From Hitler to Hiroshima is its use of primary sources. The series draws heavily on archival footage, as well as interviews with people who were directly involved in the war. This gives viewers a sense of immediacy and intimacy that would be difficult to achieve through other means. It also allows the series to avoid taking a strictly ideological position, instead letting the war speak for itself.

Despite being over 45 years old, The World at War: From Hitler to Hiroshima remains a groundbreaking series. It was one of the first documentaries to provide a truly global perspective on the Second World War, and its impact can still be felt today. The show has been praised for its accuracy, attention to detail, and ability to capture the human experience of war.

Overall, The World at War: From Hitler to Hiroshima is a must-watch for anyone interested in history or the Second World War. Its comprehensive coverage, use of primary sources, and attention to detail make it a valuable resource for scholars and casual viewers alike. While the series can be harrowing at times, it is ultimately a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of learning from our mistakes.

The World at War: From Hitler to Hiroshima is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (4 episodes). The series first aired on August 6, 2019.