Behind History

The programme surveys the key moments, driving motives and far‑reaching ramifications of wars that have moulded world history. It begins with the First World War, highlighting the iconic armistice signed on the eleventh day of the eleventh month, and then moves forward through the twentieth century. Continuing the chronology, the series reaches the modern era, culminating with Operation Desert Storm. Throughout, each episode examines how strategic decisions, political objectives and the consequences of conflict intertwined to shape subsequent events, offering a concise yet comprehensive look at the forces that have defined warfare over the past century. The analysis remains focused on the international dimension of each clash, illustrating how local battles echoed across continents.

The series surveys a selection of history’s most infamous catastrophes, guiding viewers from the tragic Hindenburg disaster through the financial upheaval of the Wall Street Crash and on to the societal turmoil of China’s Cultural Revolution. By juxtaposing these events, the programme highlights how each disaster, whether airborne, economic or political, left a lasting imprint on the world. It presents a concise yet comprehensive overview, linking the moments together to illustrate the breadth of human and systemic failure without delving into detailed analysis. The episode offers a clear snapshot of how these pivotal crises reshaped perceptions and policies across different eras.

Leaders presents a collection of narratives centred on some of history's most notable figures, ranging from Sir Winston Churchill to Fidel Castro and Nelson Mandela. Each episode follows the story of one of these individuals, charting the course of their lives, the pivotal moments that defined their public roles, and the lasting impact of their actions. By concentrating on their personal journeys and the choices they made, the programme offers a concise yet comprehensive look at how each leader navigated the challenges of their time. The series therefore provides viewers with a clear window onto the experiences that shaped three of the twentieth century's most influential personalities.