Watch World War II Special Collection

World War II Special Collection from Smithsonian Channel is a documentary series that takes the audiences on a journey through one of the deadliest wars in human history. The show is an impressive collection of rare footage, interviews, and archival materials that provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the events that shaped the twentieth century.

Across several episodes, the show takes viewers through key moments in the war, from the early days of the conflict to the battlefields of Europe, Africa, and Asia. Each episode traces a different chapter in the war, focusing on a specific aspect of the conflict or nation involved. The episodes are standalone stories, so viewers can watch them in any order without losing the thread of the story.

One of the standout features of World War II Special Collection is the amount of footage and photographs included in the series. The producers have managed to source rare and compelling footage that brings the war to life in ways that history books and photographs cannot. Viewers get an intimate view of the men and women who fought in the war, as well as the tactics, weapons, and machinery used in the battlefields.

Another strength of the series is the interviews with surviving veterans and historians who offer insights and perspectives on the events that unfolded during the war. The stories of ordinary people caught up in the conflict, from soldiers to civilians, are testament to the harrowing experiences and the sacrifices that were made during the war.

The show also delves into the political, economic, and social aspects of the war. The rise of Hitler and the Nazi party, the internment camps, and the battles for freedom and liberation are all explored in-depth. The often-complex strategies and alliances between the different sides are also explained, giving viewers a deeper understanding of the war beyond the battles and bloodshed.

One of the episodes that stand out is 'Hitler's Last Stand', which covers the final months of the war as the Allies closed in on Germany. The episode details Adolf Hitler's underground bunker, where he would spend his last days before committing suicide. The episode offers a fascinating insight into the dictator's psyche, as well as the desperate measures taken by Germany's leadership in the face of defeat.

Another episode, 'The War in the Pacific', takes viewers through the grueling battles that took place across the vast ocean. The episode explores the Japanese mindset that led them to attack Pearl Harbor and how the Allies fought back, culminating in the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The episode is a poignant reminder of the human cost of the war on both sides, as well as the magnitude of the destruction unleashed by the atomic bombs.

'Women in World War II' is another standout episode that focuses on the role of women during the conflict. The episode highlights the invaluable contributions made by women in factories, in the armed forces, and in other areas of society. The episode offers a powerful reminder of the bravery and sacrifices made by women during the war, and the role they played in shaping the world we live in today.

Overall, World War II Special Collection from Smithsonian Channel is a must-watch for anyone interested in the war or have an interest in history. With its unparalleled access to rare archival materials and personal stories of those who lived through the conflict, the series offers a deeply moving, insightful portrayal of the war that shook the world. Whether you are a history buff or a casual viewer, this series is a profound and refreshing look at one of the most significant events in human history.

World War II Special Collection is a series that ran for 1 seasons (9 episodes) between June 1, 2014 and on Smithsonian Channel