Watch Christmas at War

Christmas at War is a captivating documentary series that takes viewers on a journey through the fascinating history of how Christmas has been celebrated during times of war. The series explores the many ways in which the festive season has been affected by war, including how soldiers and civilians have celebrated the holiday season amidst the chaos and hardships of conflict. With a rich blend of first-person accounts, archival footage, and expert analysis, Christmas at War offers a unique and insightful perspective on the power of Christmas to inspire hope, peace, and joy in times of crisis.

The series covers a wide range of conflicts and periods of history, from ancient Rome to the Vietnam War. In each episode, viewers will learn about the unique challenges that soldiers and civilians faced during wartime, and how these challenges shaped the way that Christmas was observed. For example, in one episode, viewers will learn about the famous Christmas Truce of 1914, when British and German soldiers laid down their weapons and exchanged gifts and carols in No Man's Land. The episode explores how this remarkable act of humanity and goodwill came to pass, and what it meant for the soldiers involved.

In another episode, viewers will learn about the challenges of celebrating Christmas during the American Civil War, when families were torn apart and many soldiers were far from home. The episode looks at letters and diaries from soldiers and civilians, revealing the ways in which they tried to keep the Christmas spirit alive despite the hardships of war. Viewers will hear about soldiers who received care packages from home, filled with small gifts and treats, and civilians who organized Christmas parties and charity drives to support the troops.

Other episodes focus on Christmas traditions in other parts of the world during times of conflict. For example, one episode looks at the impact of World War II on Christmas celebrations in Germany, where the holiday was increasingly militarized and used as a tool of propaganda by the Nazi regime. Another episode explores the experience of African American soldiers during the Vietnam War, and how they brought their own unique traditions and music to the battlefield.

Throughout the series, viewers will hear from a wide range of experts, including historians, military experts, and cultural commentators. These experts offer valuable insights into the historical context of each episode, as well as the broader cultural and social significance of the ways in which Christmas has been celebrated during wartime. They delve into the ways in which Christmas has been used to promote national unity, spread propaganda, and inspire hope and resilience in times of crisis.

Overall, Christmas at War is a fascinating and thought-provoking series that sheds new light on the ways in which war and conflict have shaped the ways in which Christmas has been celebrated over the centuries. With its mix of engaging storytelling and expert analysis, the series is sure to captivate viewers of all ages and interests. Whether you are a history buff, a military enthusiast, or simply someone who loves Christmas, Christmas at War is a must-watch series that will inform, inspire, and entertain.

Christmas at War is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between February 29, 1996 and on HISTORY Vault