Image Credit: History Channel
If you’re a history buff, Netflix has been treating you very well lately. Ahead of the United States’ sesquicentennial – known as the America 250 – Netflix has teamed up with A&E Networks to license a massive collection of premium history channel documentaries.
As we’ve been reporting for the past few months, Netflix has been slowly introducing some groundbreaking historical documentaries to the platform as the country prepares for the 4th of July. The rollout began with an initial huge wave of titles in April, followed by an absolute treasure trove of presidential and military deep-dives that dropped on May 18, with more cultural documentaries lined up for June 15.
Of course, Netflix isn’t relying solely on licensed titles to celebrate the Americas 250. Netflix’s massive original five-part docuseries is set to air just in time for the holiday, premiering on June 24, 2026. American experiment. Directed by Brian Knappenberger (the filmmaker behind it). turn Documentary), this sweeping cinematic series takes an in-depth look at the country’s founding, from the Revolutionary War to the drafting of the Constitution. It features interviews with more than 60 influential politicians and historians – including Martin Sheen, who voices George Washington – including luminaries from both sides of the aisle like Hillary Clinton and Mike Pence.
If you want to take a look at your American history before the fireworks start, there’s plenty for you to do. To make your viewing experience a little easier, we’ve arranged every History Channel documentary coming to Netflix for the America 250 celebration in chronological order by era of history, taking you from the early colonial days right through to modern pop culture.
1607 – 2020
America: our defining hours
We’re starting with a comprehensive look at more than 300 years of America’s history. This sweeping documentary focuses on how the American spirit evolved during the most desperate moments of the country’s crisis, making it the perfect starting point for your America 250.
1732 – 1799
Washington
The 3-episode series, headlined by a voiceover from Jeff Daniels (The Newsroom), follows an idealistic soldier turned folk-hero who leads a nearly decade-long battle against the overwhelming might of the British Army to create a new nation.
1743 – 1826
Thomas Jefferson
This sweeping six-episode documentary series explores the complex life and enduring legacy of Thomas Jefferson, the third president and one of the principal Founders of the United States.
1775 – 1783
Black Patriots: Heroes of the Revolution
Coming to Netflix June 15th
Hosted by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, this powerful documentary follows the Black Americans who stepped up to serve in the American military during the Revolutionary War, and sheds light on the heroes that history books often overlook.
1775 – 1836
The Men Who Built America: Frontiersmen
This high-budget docudrama, executive produced by Leonardo DiCaprio, follows the icons who blazed their way into the unknown American wilderness after the Revolution, including such notables as Daniel Boone, Meriwether Lewis, William Clark and Davy Crockett.
1809 – 1865
abraham lincoln
As the Civil War rages on, President Abraham Lincoln must deal with a divided nation and a fractured cabinet to preserve the Union and end slavery. The three episodes star Graham Sibley, Stephen Adegbola and Jenny Stead.
1822 – 1885
Grant
Dramatic reenactments, expert commentaries, and more from Ulysses S. Tells the story of Grant, who overcame incredible odds to lead the Union to victory.
1831 – 1890
sitting bull
An entertaining docudrama detailing the life, leadership, and legacy of Hunkpapa Lakota leader who famously led his people during years of resistance against the policies of the United States government. Executive produced by Leonardo DiCaprio.
1858 – 1919
Theodore Roosevelt
This two-part series traces Theodore Roosevelt from a sick child to a Rough Rider and ultimately to U.S. President, where he decisively reforms American policies and advocates conservation.
Late 1800’s – early 1900’s
Booze, Gambling and Sex That Built America
Part of the popular “That Built America” franchise, the series traces the surprising origins of the country’s largest “vice” industries and the titans who turned them into commercial empires in the Gilded Age and beyond.
1882 – 1945
FDR
Over three episodes, this gripping docudrama traces Franklin D. Roosevelt’s rise to the presidency and leading the United States through the Great Depression and World War II.
1917 – 1918
the great war
This two-part documentary describes America’s early involvement in World War I, including General John Pershing’s campaign and the important, often overlooked experiences of African American soldiers.
1931 – 1981
American Godfather: The Five Families
If you love Netflix’s Fear City, this is the perfect companion piece. Narrated by The Sopranos star Michael Imperioli, the series traces the 50-year rise and fall of five New York mafia families.
1970s – present
Origin of hip hop
Coming to Netflix June 15th
A fantastic documentary where some of hip-hop music’s biggest icons sit down to share their personal stories and explore the roots of the genre, taking us into the modern era of American culture.
1970s – present
hip hop treasures
Coming to Netflix June 15th
In celebration of contemporary American musical heritage, hip-hop legends contribute their most prized, iconic items to the Universal Hip Hop Museum in the Bronx.
Have you been enjoying the huge wave of History Channel documentaries on Netflix? First, let us know what era of history you’re entering in the comments below!
