A History of Ancient Britain

A History of Ancient Britain is a riveting and expertly crafted historical documentary series that promises to transport viewers thousands of years back in time to discover the rich and vibrant past of the British Isles. Streamed on BritBox, a digital video subscription service created by the BBC and ITV plc, the series offers an in-depth exploration of British prehistory, covering a vast period that spans from the Ice Age to the Iron Age.

First aired in 2011 and completed in 2012, A History of Ancient Britain is hosted by the charismatic archaeologist and historian, Neil Oliver. Known for his work on several other successful history and archaeology programs, Oliver infuses the series with a wealth of expertise and a palpable enthusiasm for the subject matter, effectively engaging with viewers and making the complex narratives of ancient history accessible to a broad audience.

The series is divided into four principal parts that cover different eras: the Age of Ice, the Age of Ancestors, the Age of Cosmology, and the Age of Bronze. Through these periods, each episode delves into the most important historical moments, presenting an authentic picture of the people, societies, cultures, technologies, and conflicts that defined these times.

Emphasizing the extraordinary survivability of humankind, the series initiates in the brutal terrain of the Ice Age, presenting the challenges of life in a frozen landscape. Viewers get to learn about the ancient species that shared this harsh environment with early Homo sapiens, including the Woolly Mammoth and the Cave Lion. It elaborates on how the human race adapted to and survived such harsh conditions, sowing the seeds of the future civilization that was to arise.

The Age of Ancestors chapter transports viewer to the Mesolithic and Neolithic ages, illuminating the transformative changes that the advent of farming brought about in societal structures, from nomadic hunter-gatherers to permanent settlers. Viewers get to learn about the construction of iconic British landmarks such as the mysterious stone circles of the Orkneys and Stonehenge, their cultural significance and the technological ingenuity required for their creation during this time frame.

In the Age of Cosmology, the episode delves into the Bronze Age and the accompanying advancements in metalwork and how that revolutionized weaponry, farming, and trade. The viewers also get to relive the discovery of celestial patterns, the birth of complex religious beliefs and the creation of the earliest maps of the cosmos.

Finally, the series closes with the Age of Bronze, spotlighting the profound cultural changes from sheep farming and pottery to hill forts and international trade routes, eventually leading to the establishment of an island identity, signaling the arrival of the Celtic era.

While the series revolves around historical unfolding, it does so by closely examining specific archaeological findings. This examination includes an array of intriguing objects like primitive tools, remnants of dwellings, ancient artworks, colossal henges, among other fascinating finds. Neil Oliver, with his enthusiastic and passionate storytelling, brings out the tales buried in each artifact, creating an engaging narrative that resonates with viewers, history enthusiasts, and anyone keen on understanding the roots of modern Britain.

A History of Ancient Britain doesn't just chronicle history; it vividly portrays how our distant ancestors lived, loved, fought, and died, their travails, triumphs and their unwavering spirit. The series combines history with archaeology and anthropology, providing an immersive and educational experience that shines a light on the formidable resilience of the human spirit, as well as the roots of Britain's societal fabric.

Overall, A History of Ancient Britain is an educational treat to delve into the past and experience the evolution of a civilization. The show, broadcast on BritBox, brilliantly wraps up knowledge, raw facts and untold stories that span thousands of years, skillfully narrated and well-presented by Neil Oliver. The series makes for an intriguing watch for anyone interested in history, archaeology, anthropology and even for those with a casual interest in knowing more about the origins of humanity and civilization.