Best History Documentaries on Amazon Prime

Japanese Secret Empire

A three-part PBS miniseries exploring the rise and rule of the Tokugawa dynasty in Japan, focusing on samurais and the Bushido Code[2].


When the Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts

Spike Lee’s four-part HBO documentary on the devastation of Hurricane Katrina and the government's response[2].


Swimming in Auschwitz

A moving documentary about six Holocaust survivors who reflect on their experiences during one of history's darkest periods[2].


The Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance

A four-part PBS miniseries detailing the rise and fall of the Medici dynasty and their cultural impact in Florence[2].


Above and Beyond

A documentary about World War II pilots who played crucial roles in Israel's War of Independence[2].


How We Played the Revolution

A 70-minute documentary on the cultural rebellion in 1980s Lithuania that led to its independence[2].


The History of the One Child Policy

A harrowing look at China's one-child policy, its enforcement, and the personal stories of those affected[4].


The Imposter

A suspenseful documentary about a conman who impersonated a missing 13-year-old boy, exploring themes of identity and deception[7].


Time

A poignant documentary documenting one woman’s fight to free her husband from a lengthy prison sentence, highlighting the struggles of the prison system[9].


One Child Nation

This film investigates the consequences of China's one-child policy, including forced sterilizations and family separations[7][9].


the witness poster
The Witness

A deep exploration of the 1964 murder of Kitty Genovese and the societal implications of inaction during a crisis[3].


My Name Is Pauli Murray

An exploration of the life of the gender-nonconforming lawyer and activist who championed women's rights[7].


Good Night Oppy

A touching documentary about the Mars rover Opportunity and the bond formed between it and its mission team[7][9].


Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father

A heartbreaking film piecing together the life of Andrew Bagby after his murder and the subsequent events affecting his son[7].


Timothy Treadwell in ’Grizzly Man’
Grizzly Man

A documentary exploring the life and tragic death of Timothy Treadwell, who lived among Alaskan bears[1].


A live concert still from "Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World" featuring George Harrison, Klaus Voorman, Jesse Ed Davis, and Eric Clapton.
Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World

A documentary highlighting the significant contributions of Native American musicians to popular music[7].


Judy Blume Forever

This film showcases the life of the beloved author, focusing on her impact on young adult literature and readers alike[1][7].


Val

A deeply personal documentary about actor Val Kilmer, featuring his own footage and narration reflecting on his life and career[9].


A Man Named Scott

A documentary chronicling Kid Cudi’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a significant influence in hip-hop[7].


The Greatest Night in Pop

A behind-the-scenes look at the making of the charity single 'We Are the World' featuring multiple iconic artists[9].


The Medici, Godfathers of the Renaissance

Explores the Medici family's influence on art and culture during the Renaissance period[2].


Across the River

The story of a community’s efforts to survive during a systemic crisis, shedding light on challenges faced by marginalized groups[6].


The Sunshine Makers

An exploration of the underground LSD production during the '60s and the lives of its creators[7].


Follow Up Recommendations