Germany’s history is rich with events and notable individuals who changed the course of the country’s history and impacted the world. The rapid development of German cinema and television in recent decades has led to the creation of numerous historical series that recount significant eras and people. Let’s look at some popular German historical series and the figures that became their main characters.
From the Roman Empire to the Middle Ages
One of Germany’s most important historical figures, about whom several films and series have been made, is Arminius, the leader of the Cherusci tribe, famous for his victory over Roman troops in the Teutoburg Forest. This battle in 9 AD halted Roman expansion eastward and became a turning point in European history.
“Barbarians”
The Netflix series “Barbarians,” released in 2020, is dedicated to this iconic victory. The story revolves around the rebellion of Germanic tribes led by Arminius against the Roman Empire. The series focuses on the cultural conflict, personal dramas of the main characters, and political intrigue. “Barbarians” impresses with its historical context, picturesque landscapes, and detailed battle scenes, making the series not only thrilling but also educational for viewers interested in ancient history.
“Charlemagne”
Another important historical period often covered in series is the Carolingian era, marking the rise of feudal Europe. The figure of Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor, remains one of the key figures in European history. His life and deeds are reflected in the German TV film “Charlemagne,” which explores the political reforms and religious policies of this outstanding ruler.
Weimar Republic and the Rise of Nazi Germany
The Weimar Republic period and the rise of Nazism are among the most dramatic in German history, and they have been reflected in several series that attempt to understand the causes and consequences of these events.
“The Adlon. A Family Saga”
One prominent example is the series “The Adlon. A Family Saga.” This three-episode miniseries tells the story of the famous Berlin Adlon Hotel, which became a symbol of glamour and a witness to the tumultuous historical events of the first half of the 20th century. The story focuses on the lives of the hotel’s owners and its guests, who face political crises, wars, and social instability. The plot spans from the end of World War I to the rise of Nazism, offering viewers a unique look at how personal stories intertwine with major historical events.
“Generation War”
Set in the same period, another significant series, “Generation War,” covers the events of World War II. The plot centers on the fates of five friends who are forced to confront the harsh realities of a war that divides their lives and worldviews. This series depicts not only military actions but also the inner conflicts of people facing the horrors of war and moral dilemmas.
Cold War and Divided Germany
The period of Germany’s division into West Germany (FRG) and East Germany (GDR) after World War II has become a major theme for German historical series. The Stasi, the East German State Security, had a huge influence on the lives of millions of people, reflected in projects like “Deutschland 83” and its sequels.
“Deutschland 83”
The series “Deutschland 83” tells the story of a young East German soldier sent to spy on NATO in West Germany during the height of the Cold War. The plot focuses on the protagonist’s double life, trying to fulfill his mission while staying true to his ideals and realizing the complexity of the political situation. This series was the first German project to be shown on American television and received high praise for its historical accuracy and suspenseful plot.
“Deutschland 86” and “Deutschland 89”
The sequels “Deutschland 86” and “Deutschland 89” continue to explore the fates of the main characters as the world changes, the Eastern Bloc begins to collapse, and the Cold War draws to a close. These series help viewers understand how the international conflict affected the lives of ordinary people living on both sides of the Berlin Wall.
Historical series about Germany cover many eras and tell the stories of great rulers and ordinary people caught in the midst of important historical events. They show how the dramatic events of the past continue to influence our perception of the world today.