Image Credit: History Channel
As we covered last month, Netflix has launched a new licensing arrangement with A+E Networks, bringing a curated collection of premium History Channel documentaries to the streaming service. After a massive drop in April – including one produced by Leonardo DiCaprio sitting bull and Michael Imperioli-narrated American Godfather: The Five Families-Netflix is keeping the momentum going with a second wave of acclaimed historical content arriving this May.
If you look closely at the upcoming lineup, a very clear strategy emerges: Netflix is brilliantly timing these pickups to align with upcoming America 250 Celebration. As the United States prepares for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in July 2026, Netflix is bolstering its library with history’s most acclaimed docu-dramas, giving subscribers a front-row seat to the country’s defining chapters.
We can confirm that three major titles are coming to Netflix US Monday, May 18, 2026. Here’s a closer look at each title joining your Netflix library mid-month, including their original premiere dates and who brought these historical figures to life:
Washington: Oath (2020)
Original air date: February 16-18, 2020
Possibly one of the most definitive presidential docu-dramas in history, this three-part event dismantles the marble monument to reveal the complex man behind the myth. The miniseries originally debuted over Presidents Day weekend to mark the network’s 25th anniversary. Narrated by an Emmy-winner jeff danielsThe series features brilliantly scripted visuals nicholas rowe (Crown, young sherlock holmes) as the first President of America. The live-action segments trace his journey from a young, ambitious soldier to the reluctant leader of a new nation.
Theodore Roosevelt (2022)
Original air date: May 30-31, 2022
Executive produced by Leonardo DiCaprio (who also produced the recent Netflix addition of April marginal people And sitting bull), this fascinating two-part program explores the tireless, bull-moose energy of America’s 26th president.
Originally broadcast as a major Memorial Day television program, the miniseries based its narrative on the work of renowned historian Doris Kearns Goodwin. British actor rufus jones (W1A, stan and ollie) turns to TR for a dramatic reenactment, describing his life from a sick child to a champion of conservation and a global powerhouse. Scripted sequences also included Aubrey Shelton Starred as President William McKinley.
the great war (2024)
Original air date: May 27-28, 2024
Moving away from presidential biographies, this gripping four-hour documentary takes an in-depth look at America’s entry into World War I. executive produced good morning america Co-anchored by Robin Roberts, the series originally served as History’s Memorial Day program in 2024.
Through narrative sequences and expert commentaries, the series focuses on General John J. Pershing, Michael B. Combines the stories of Alice and the famous Harlem Hellfighters (including heroes Henry Johnson and Horace Pippin). Rather than focusing solely on a central actor like presidential miniseries, this docu-drama relies on a stellar lineup of expert interviewees, including retired generals, to guide the historical narrative. David Petraeus and bestselling author max brooks.
Keep an eye on our comprehensive guide to what’s coming to Netflix in May 2026 for all the latest release dates and breaking news.
