The 150+ Best Historical Drama TV Shows
- Rhys Darby, Taika Waititi, Nathan FoadVenturing into the realm of high-seas humor, Our Flag Means Death presents an offbeat take on the lives of 18th-century pirates. This comedy series has garnered attention for its clever blend of historical context and contemporary wit, while maintaining a keen sense of adventure. Through the eyes of Stede Bonnet (Rhys Darby), audiences embark on a journey filled with unexpected friendships, particularly with the infamous pirate Blackbeard (Taika Waititi). As the ensemble cast navigates treacherous waters and encounters peculiar characters, viewers are treated to a refreshing perspective on piracy that subverts traditional expectations. With its innovative storytelling and strong performances, Our Flag Means Death sails confidently in uncharted comedic territory.More Our Flag Means Death
- #4 of 676 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #1 of 1,047 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #1 of 20 onThe Best Underrated & Overlooked TV Shows
- Alexander Dreymon, Emily Cox, Timothy Innes
Travel back to the 9th century, as kingdoms clash in the quest to claim England. The story follows Uhtred, a Saxon-born warrior raised by Vikings. Through deceit, betrayal, and bloody battles, he grapples with his conflicted loyalties while seeking revenge and trying to claim his rightful birthright.
- votes needed!NEW TO THE LIST
- NEW#89Manhunt
- NEW#87Franklin
- Cillian Murphy, Natasha O'Keeffe, Paul Anderson
Set in the grimy streets of 1920s Birmingham, a razor-wielding gang led by the charismatic Tommy Shelby rises to power. The riveting tale of crime, ambition, and family tensions will leave viewers enthralled and rooting for the cunning Shelby clan against all odds.
More Peaky Blinders- #4 of 110 onThe Best Drama TV Shows Airing Now
- #6 of 29 onCurrent British TV Shows You've Been Missing This Whole Time
- #11 of 449 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- Caitriona Balfe, Sam Heughan, Sophie Skelton
Join the time-traveling adventures of Claire Randall, a World War II nurse who finds herself transported back to 18th-century Scotland. She encounters danger, romance, and more in this beautifully crafted love story spanning centuries.
More Outlander- Dig Deeper...20 Fascinating Facts From Behind The Scenes Of 'Outlander'
- #16 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #19 of 110 onThe Best Drama TV Shows Airing Now
- Damian Lewis, Ron Livingston, Rick Gomez
Experience the harrowing journey of Easy Company, an elite Airborne infantry unit, in World War II. Based on real-life accounts, the series offers a graphic and intimate look at the bravery, camaraderie, and sacrifice of these extraordinary men.
More Band of Brothers- #3 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #8 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- #5 of 646 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- Katheryn Winnick, Moe Dunford, Josefin Asplund
Embark on a thrilling journey with legendary Norse hero, Ragnar Lothbrok, as he seeks to expand his Viking dominion. Through savage battles, gritty situations, and political maneuvering, this epic tale embodies the era's brutal and fascinating history.
More Vikings- Dig Deeper...The Actual History Behind 11 Things That Happen On 'Vikings: Valhalla'
- #5 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #11 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- Imelda Staunton, Jonathan Pryce, Lesley Manville
Watch the political rivalries and romances of Queen Elizabeth II's early reign unfold in this critically acclaimed series. Plunging into the private lives and behind-the-scenes decisions, it captures the true essence of British royalty.
- Hugh Bonneville, Laura Carmichael, Jim Carter
Enter the luxurious world of an early 20th-century British aristocratic family, as both their lives and those of their servants unfold. This enticing period drama showcases the social changes that challenged the traditional British system during those turbulent times.
More Downton Abbey- Dig Deeper...The Best Downton Abbey Actors
- And Deeper...The Best 'Downton Abbey' Seasons, Ranked
- #60 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- Jonathan Rhys-Meyers, Tamzin Merchant, Joss Stone
Follow the riveting life and reign of one of England's most infamous kings, Henry VIII. This captivating series delves into the tumultuous relationships, political scheming, and religious controversies that made the Tudor era so enthralling.
More The Tudors- Dig Deeper...Archaeologists Unearthed A Treasure Trove Of Lost Artifacts In A Tudor Attic
- #23 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #137 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- Kevin McKidd, Ray Stevenson, Polly Walker
Travel back to ancient Rome during the tumultuous period that saw Julius Caesar's rise and fall, and the birth of the Roman Empire. This critically acclaimed series features stunning visuals, intrigue, and power struggles that will leave viewers captivated.
More Rome- #22 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #103 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #148 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- Max Irons, James Frain, Rebecca Ferguson
Witness the strife and turmoil during the Wars of the Roses from the perspective of three powerful women vying for the crown. Love, betrayal, and alliances abound in this gripping portrayal of a tumultuous period in English history.
More The White Queen- #45 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #3 of 10 onCurrent TV Shows That Are Just Game of Thrones Ripoffs
- #240 of 298 on285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
- Toby Stephens, Hannah New, Luke Arnold
Set sail with feared pirate Captain Flint and his crew as they battle rival pirates, navigate the treacherous waters of the Caribbean, and try to stay one step ahead of the law in this pirate-filled prequel to Treasure Island.
More Black Sails- #12 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #117 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- #151 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 13
Poldark
Aidan Turner, Eleanor Tomlinson, Ellise ChappellWitness the trials and tribulations of Captain Ross Poldark after the Revolutionary War, as he returns home to Cornwall only to find heartbreak and financial ruin. He then endeavors to rebuild his life and challenge the corrupt powers that be.
More Poldark- Dig Deeper...Small Historical Details 'Poldark' Actually Got Right
- #206 of 449 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- #181 of 645 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- Dustin Hoffman, Guido Caprino, Giorgio Caputo
Delve into the political intrigue and power struggles of the immensely wealthy Medici family in 15th-century Florence. The series highlights the scandals, tragedies, and artistic accomplishments which shaped both the family and the Renaissance era.
More Medici- #14 of 14 onThe Best TV Shows About Ancestry
- #18 of 91 onThe 70+ Best Historical Fiction Shows
- #6 of 83 onThe 85+ Best Historical Shows On Netflix, Ranked
- 15
Versailles
George Blagden, Alexander Vlahos, Tygh RunyanStep into the opulent world of Louis XIV as he plans to transform his hunting lodge into the grandest palace the world has ever seen. The lavish sets and intricate power dynamics of 17th-century France make this a must-watch for history buffs and drama enthusiasts alike.
More Versailles - Jenna Coleman, Tom Hughes, Peter Bowles
Follow the young Queen Victoria as she ascends the British throne and navigates the tumultuous politics of the 19th-century monarchy. Romance, drama, and stunning costumes abound in this captivating portrayal of the beloved queen's life and reign.
- Colin Firth, Jennifer Ehle, Crispin Bonham-Carter
Relive the classic love story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, as they navigate the expectations and societal norms of Regency-era England. This timeless adaptation of Jane Austen's beloved novel introduces viewers to a witty and engaging world populated with memorable characters.
More Pride and Prejudice- Dig Deeper...The Best Books Inspired by Pride and Prejudice
- #325 of 449 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- #182 of 645 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- Jared Harris, Stellan Skarsgård, Emily Watson
Discover the chilling facts and human stories behind the infamous 1986 nuclear disaster. Meticulously researched and hauntingly realistic, this miniseries delves deep into the events surrounding one of the most catastrophic accidents in human history.
More Chernobyl- Dig Deeper...Things You Might Not Have Known About HBO's 'Chernobyl'
- #1 of 676 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #11 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- Jodie Comer, Jacob Collins-Levy, Rebecca Benson
Step into the world of the Wars of the Roses, when two bitter rivals fight for the throne. This gripping series follows Elizabeth of York, who has to not only find her way through a web of political intrigue but also grapple with her growing love for her enemy, King Henry VII.
More The White Princess- #9 of 14 onThe Best TV Shows About Ancestry
- #11 of 91 onThe 70+ Best Historical Fiction Shows
- #21 of 35 onThe Best Current Starz Shows, Ranked
- Jenny Agutter, Annabelle Apsion, Linda Bassett
Venture into the heartwarming world of a group of midwives working in London's East End in the 1950s and 60s. Their personal journeys highlight the challenges and changes faced by women and society during this pivotal time.
More Call The Midwife- #13 of 252 onThe 250+ Best BBC One Shows, Ranked
- #1 of 76 onThe 70 Best Current Shows About Women
- #5 of 29 onCurrent British TV Shows You've Been Missing This Whole Time
- Jamie Bell, Seth Numrich, Daniel Henshall
Uncover the gripping story of America's first spy ring, as a farmer and his childhood friends risk their lives to provide vital intelligence for George Washington during the Revolutionary War. Intrigue, danger, and romance fill this engaging tale of espionage and heroism.
- #7 of 60 onThe 55+ Best AMC Originals, Ranked
- #232 of 298 on285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
- #5 of 17 on11 War TV Shows That Hit As Hard As A Movie
- Aidan Turner
Witness the trials and tribulations of Captain Ross Poldark after the Revolutionary War, as he returns home to Cornwall only to find heartbreak and financial ruin. He then endeavors to rebuild his life and challenge the corrupt powers that be.
More Poldark- #269 of 298 on285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
- #105 of 138 onThe 101 Best Period Piece TV Shows
- #20 of 91 onThe 70+ Best Historical Fiction Shows
- Eric McIntire, Daniel Spink, Matthew Felker
Feel the pulse and fury of gladiator Spartacus's journey as he navigates the brutal world of the Roman arena. This gripping series is packed with intense action sequences, dramatic twists, and subversive political intrigue as he fights for his freedom.
- Dig Deeper...Why Spartacus Is More Groundbreaking And Hardcore Than Game Of Thrones
- #17 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #201 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- Steve Buscemi, Michael Pitt, Kelly Macdonald
Step into the world of Atlantic City during the Prohibition era, where crime boss Enoch "Nucky" Thompson walks a fine line between politics and the mob. This captivating series explores the corruption, excess, and violence that lurked beneath the surface of America's playground.
More Boardwalk Empire- Dig Deeper...The Best Episodes of Boardwalk Empire
- And Deeper...The Best 'Boardwalk Empire' Seasons, Ranked
- #13 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- Jeremy Irons, François Arnaud, David Oakes
Delve into the scandalous world of the infamous Borgia family, who ruled Rome during the 15th century. This riveting series highlights the immorality, power struggles, and corruption which have made the Borgia name synonymous with debauchery and ruthlessness.
More The Borgias- Dig Deeper...Murder, Inbreeding, And Destroying The Catholic Church: The Sins Of The Borgias
- #40 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #371 of 449 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- Daniela Denby-Ashe, Richard Armitage, Tim Pigott-Smith
Watch as a native southerner moves to the industrial North of England, experiencing both personal and societal struggles typical of Victorian society. Adapted from Elizabeth Gaskell's novel, this heart-wrenching series uncovers themes of love, prejudice, and social upheaval.
More North & South- #13 of 138 onThe 101 Best Period Piece TV Shows
- #6 of 72 onThe 65+ Best Victorian Era Shows, Ranked
- #2 of 78 onThe 60+ Best Costume Drama TV Shows
- Adelaide Kane, Megan Follows, Rachel Skarsten
Witness the early years of Mary, Queen of Scots, as she returns to France to secure her political position. This sumptuous series combines romance, political scheming, and supernatural elements for a riveting exploration of one of history's most enigmatic queens.
More Reign- #186 of 356 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #273 of 645 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #51 of 259 onThe 195+ Best TV Shows With Female Leads
- Anson Mount, Colm Meaney, Phil Burke
Venture onto the lawless frontier of the 19th-century railroad boom as former Confederate soldier Cullen Bohannon seeks vengeance amidst the cutthroat world of building the First Transcontinental Railroad. This thrilling series is filled with danger, corruption, and adventure.
More Hell on Wheels- Dig Deeper...The Best 'Hell on Wheels' Seasons, Ranked
- #229 of 449 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- #5 of 60 onThe 55+ Best AMC Originals, Ranked
- Paul Giamatti, Laura Linney, Tom Wilkinson
Experience the life and times of one of America's founding fathers in this Emmy-winning miniseries. The remarkable rise of John Adams from lawyer to President is portrayed with incredible depth, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of America's birth as a nation.
More John Adams- #28 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #331 of 449 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- #97 of 645 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- Charlotte Hope, Richard Pepper, Harriet Walter
Experience the intrigue and betrayals of a young Catherine of Aragon as she leaves Spain to marry the Prince of Wales, only to find herself caught in a web of political maneuvering in Tudor England. As her fortunes rise and fall, she fights to preserve her royal status and position.
More The Spanish Princess- #73 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #19 of 91 onThe 70+ Best Historical Fiction Shows
- #3 of 35 onThe Best Current Starz Shows, Ranked