New on the History Channel in December:
New Series:
American Revolution
Premiere date: 18 December at 20h30
This programme tells the story of this pivotal era in history as it unfolds through sweeping cinematic recreations, intimate biographical investigation, provocative political commentary and evocative original music. With innovative, 3-D computer graphics we bring to life, times and places where the revolutionary tide turned. This series will explore the breadth and depth of this essential period in American history.
Vic Reeves’ Pirates
Premiere date: 21 December at 21h00
In this six-part series comedian Vic Reeves explores his passion for nautical skulduggery as he embarks on a journey of pirate discovery. During his voyage, stories of the world's most notorious pirates unfold as he discovers how these cold blooded rogues murdered and pillaged on the high seas, lured by the promise of great treasures. We delves into the social and historical context of their barbaric behaviour and takes viewers on a terrifying tour through a rogues’ gallery that includes Henry Avery, Thomas Salkeld, William Dampier, and Vic’s own personal hero - Blackbeard who kicks off the first episode.
SPECIALS:
True Caribbean PiratesPremiere date: 20th December at 20:30
Long before Johnny Depp and Disney brought their version to the screen, scores of real pirates plied their brutal trade in the waters of the Caribbean. In the 1600s and 1700s, Blackbeard and Captain William Kidd were among the infamous pirates whose crews lied in wait to violently raid merchant ships of various nations. We reveal, far beyond popular legend, the true stories of who they were, how they operated, and their successes and failures in this dark and deadly profession. True Caribbean Pirates explores these dramatic stories, separating the real history from the romanticised notions mythologised in books and movies.
Return of the PiratesPremiere date: 22nd December at 20:30
Reports show that attacks against commercial shipping are up by 20 percent this year and show no sign of letting up. Maritime piracy dates back more than 3000 years and has always been a force to be reckoned with. Maritime piracy, far from a mere historical curiosity, is a growing threat to the world’s economy and security. The romantic image of the pirate is gone. The modern day pirate has become highly organised, increasingly political, and will command the world’s attention once again.
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