Watch Jeremy Paxman, Empire

Jeremy Paxman, Empire is a six-part historical documentary television series produced by the BBC and presented by Jeremy Paxman, a renowned British journalist and television presenter. The series was first released in 2012 and explores the history of the British Empire, one of the largest and most influential empires in world history.

The documentary series is divided into six hour-long episodes, each focusing on a different aspect of the British Empire's history. The series covers the period spanning from the earliest days of the British Empire in the 16th century to the modern era, examining the empire's rise to power, its impact on the world, and its eventual decline.

The first episode of the series, entitled "A Taste for Power," explores the early years of the British Empire and looks at the factors that contributed to its rapid expansion. The episode examines key figures such as Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh, and their efforts to establish Britain as a global power.

The second episode, "Making Ourselves at Home," looks at the way in which the British Empire transformed and influenced the cultures and societies of the peoples it encountered. The episode examines the impact of British colonisation on the indigenous peoples of North America, Africa, and Asia, and the lasting legacy of the Empire on these cultures.

The third episode, "Playing the Game," looks at the role of the British Empire in shaping the global economy. The episode examines the ways in which the Empire benefited from international trade, and how this led to the development of a global financial order that still exists today.

The fourth episode, "Making a Fortune," examines the role of the British Empire in the Industrial Revolution, and its impact on the economy of Britain and its colonies. The episode looks at the development of industries such as cotton, tea, and sugar, and the exploitation of labour in these industries.

The fifth episode, "The Road to Hell," looks at the darker side of the British Empire's history, examining the impact of slavery, genocide, and colonial violence on the indigenous peoples of the world. The episode examines some of the most notorious events in the Empire's history, including the Indian Mutiny, the Opium Wars, and the Amritsar Massacre.

The sixth and final episode, "Empire of Good Intentions," examines the legacy of the British Empire in the modern world. The episode looks at the impact of British colonialism on contemporary issues such as immigration, nationalism, and globalisation, and the ongoing debate about the benefits and drawbacks of the Empire.

Throughout the series, Jeremy Paxman provides insightful commentary and analysis, drawing on his extensive knowledge of British history and his engaging and accessible style. The series is also supported by archive footage, interviews with historians, and expert analysis, making it both informative and entertaining.

Overall, Jeremy Paxman, Empire is a captivating and thought-provoking series that offers a comprehensive overview of the British Empire's impact on world history. The series is engaging and informative, and is essential viewing for anyone interested in the history of the British Empire or the impact of colonialism on the world.