The World at War

I am a history buff. I have always loved history - from the ancient civilizations to the 20th century. If there is a historical documentary, I'm willing to watch it. Granted, I occasionally end up making fun of it because the producer's bias is TOO obvious. (Don't get me wrong, we all have bias - we're human. However in some cases it is patently obvious that someone is pushing a particular point of view and ignoring solid scholarship for a contrary one...*rolls eyes*)

This particular documentary series (yay - more than one!) was made in the 70's, so it is missing some valuable information previously held behind the iron curtain of the Soviets, but it is still a remarkable collection. Broken down into various segments, it gives you a fabulous introduction into this pivotal time in world history. From "A New Germany" detailing Hitler's rise to power thru the attack on Poland in 1939 to "Genocide" an introduction into the horrors of the Holocaust, this series allows you a tantalizing glimpse of the complexity of the era.

Everyone should have to get at least this much education on World War II and the socio-cultural life surrounding it. So much of the world is now based on foundations created at that time...good and bad. Narrated by Sir Laurence Olivier, it is well worth your time. I don't usually post links to where you can buy it, but that is how strongly I would recommend this. (Of course, I point out I said it was an introduction...please consider further study!)

Amazon