Watch England, the 1960s, and the Triumph of the Beatles

Michael Sheldon takes viewers on a journey back in time to England in the 1960s, a time when a cultural revolution was taking place. In particular, the focus is on The Beatles and their incredible impact on music and popular culture. The show opens with a brief introduction to the social and political climate in England during the 1960s. It was a time of change and upheaval, with young people rebelling against the traditional values of their parents and seeking new forms of expression. This set the stage for the arrival of The Beatles, a band from Liverpool that would soon take the world by storm.

From there, the show delves into the history of The Beatles, exploring their origins, their rise to fame, and the impact they had on music and popular culture. Using both archival footage and expert analysis, Sheldon tells the story of how four young men from Liverpool became the most popular band in the world.

One of the key themes of the show is the idea that The Beatles represented a triumph of youth culture over the old guard. Through their music, style, and attitude, they embodied the rebellion and individualism of the 1960s, challenging the staid and traditional values of their elders. In doing so, they paved the way for a new generation of artists and thinkers to emerge.

But the show doesn't just focus on the cultural impact of The Beatles. It also explores their musical evolution, from their early days as a skiffle band to their psychedelic experiments of the late 1960s. Along the way, Sheldon analyzes some of their most iconic songs, such as "A Hard Day's Night," "Yesterday," and "Hey Jude," showing how they pushed the boundaries of what was possible in popular music.

Throughout the show, Sheldon also provides valuable context for the time period, highlighting the social and political currents that were swirling around The Beatles. He discusses issues such as civil rights, the Vietnam War, and the rise of the counterculture, demonstrating how these larger forces influenced the band's music and message.

Ultimately, England, the 1960s, and the Triumph of the Beatles is a fascinating look at one of the most important cultural moments of the 20th century. With its mix of historical analysis, musical insight, and archival footage, it paints a vivid picture of a time when anything seemed possible and a group of young musicians from Liverpool captured the world's imagination.

England, the 1960s, and the Triumph of the Beatles is a series that ran for 1 seasons (12 episodes) between November 6, 2020 and on The Great Courses Signature Collection