50+ Best PBS Documentaries, Ranked

This documentary series plunges into a divisive period of American history. It shows the human stories, political shifts, and brutal fighting that shaped the Civil War. This work examines the lasting effect of the Civil War.

This gripping series explores a contentious chapter of American history. Powerful interviews, expert analysis, and archival footage reveal the complexities of the Vietnam War and its effect on the US and Vietnam.

Step back to the environmental disaster that hit the Great Plains during the 1930s. This documentary shows the desperation felt by those affected. It reveals the human strength that kept going despite huge challenges.

Explore the beauty and history of America's most cherished natural treasures. This series shows how each park was created. Viewers learn the important role these protected areas play in saving the nation's varied ecosystems and culture.

Ride through the history of the American frontier. This series shows the Indigenous people who first settled there. It also shows the cowboys and pioneers who conquered the wild west. This paints a clear picture of the wins and losses in America's backyard.

Tune in to this toe-tapping look at America's main music. This series shows the legends, stories, and changing styles that make country music a lasting part of America, from Appalachian folk roots to today's hits.

See the harsh reality of World War II through the eyes of those who lived it. Sharing the personal accounts of soldiers and civilians, this series shows the courage, sacrifice, and strength that defined a generation.

This informative and engaging series explores science. It tackles major questions and new discoveries within the scientific community.NovaNova opens the door to the universe's wonders and human ingenuity's endless potential.

Journey through the natural world with this stunning series. It shows the beauty, variety, and wonder of Earth's wildlife and habitats. Captivating filming and sharp insight make this a must-watch for any nature lover.

This series takes you through America's past. It uncovers the stories and characters that shaped the nation. Expert insights and great storytelling give viewers an eye-opening look at events that defined American history.

Swing into jazz music with this documentary series. It chronicles the genre's history, trailblazing artists, and lasting effect on American culture. Music lovers and history buffs will enjoy this.

This documentary focuses on New York City. It explores the city's diverse history, iconic landmarks, and neighborhoods that shaped it. Viewers see the evolution of this busy metropolis firsthand.

This series shows the rich history, cultural impact, and unforgettable moments that made baseball a national treasure. Experience America's favorite pastime.

This documentary celebrates the lives and achievements of influential American artists, writers, and thinkers. Intimate interviews and rare footage show viewers the creative genius and lasting impact of these icons.

This landmark documentary shows the Civil Rights Movement. It chronicles the key moments, main players, and lasting legacy of the fight for equality. Firsthand accounts and unforgettable stories feature in this.Eyes on the PrizeThis resource helps everyone learn about our nation's past.

This documentary series shows the world of Ernest Hemingway. It uses rare archival footage and literary experts to unpack his complex life and lasting legacy.

History, science, and living traditions show the world created by America's native peoples.

This documentary shows the life and times of Benjamin Franklin, one of America's founding fathers. It explores his brilliant mind, innovative spirit, and many contributions to the United States. Experts and stories show the genius of this person.

This traces the near end and later return of the American buffalo.

Genealogist and historian Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr. helps celebrities and regular people uncover their family histories in this series. Surprising connections and emotional stories appear.Finding Your RootsThis offers a unique look at the varied history of America.

This award-winning investigative journalism series tackles major issues, controversial topics, and untold stories facing the nation and the world. It gives viewers unmatched access and insight.Frontline is in the 50+ Best PBS Documentaries, Ranked list.Frontline keeps viewers updated on the most important subjects.

This legendary television series immerses you in live music. It shows the biggest names and brightest talents, from rock legends to country superstars.Austin City Limits offers music lovers of all genres an unforgettable front row experience.Austin City Limits gives music lovers of all genres an unforgettable front row experience.

This documentary series opens a conversation about mental health in young people. It features candid interviews with people, families, and experts, exploring the challenges, stigmas, and solutions for youth mental illness in America now.

The rise and fall of disco and its lasting musical and cultural impact.

This groundbreaking series shows the world through unique perspectives. Independent filmmakers present diverse, personal documentaries covering topics from touching to provocative.POV is in the 50+ Best PBS Documentaries, Ranked list.POV lets viewers see the world through someone else's eyes.

Cutting-edge science and top visual effects bring dinosaurs to life.

This series covers the Black movement across the 20th and 21st centuries and its shaping of the U.S.

This covers the life and work of Leonardo da Vinci, showing how the artist influenced later generations.

The documentary features unheard testimonies from all sides of the Northern Ireland conflict.

This critically acclaimed anthology series uses storytelling to show work from independent filmmakers globally. It features thought-provoking documentaries, strong narrative films, and new animation.Independent Lens is in the 50+ Best PBS Documentaries, Ranked list.Independent Lens gives viewers a window into different perspectives and experiences.

Step into the ring with one of the greatest boxers of all time.Muhammad AliThis documentary series explores Muhammad Ali's life, career, and lasting legacy. Captivating interviews and rare archival footage give viewers a deeper look at the man behind the gloves and his effect on sports and society.

This eye-opening documentary series explores higher education in America's prison system. It focuses on education's power, highlighting the challenges, triumphs, and life-changing potential of offering college courses to incarcerated people.

Lucy Worsley shows the connection between Sherlock Holmes and Arthur Conan Doyle.

This shows the life of artist Frida Kahlo and her turbulent relationship with Diego Rivera, whom she married twice.

Biologist Shane Campbell-Staton travels the globe to study how humans changed the planet.

Lucy Worsley explores the lives of six people who lived and worked during the Blitz.

This documentary series celebrates music that united generations. It shows the stories, artists, and lasting effect of America's favorite anthems. It covers everything from patriotic tunes to protest songs.American Anthems is in the 50+ Best PBS Documentaries, Ranked list.This series shows the strong links between music and national identity.

Steve Weldon explores Joshua Tree National Park, Yosemite, the High Sierra, and the Grand Tetons.

This explores the country's founding struggle and its eight-year War for Independence.

This documentary series takes you through the world of plants. It reveals the amazing beauty and complexity of Earth's botanical wonders. It covers towering rainforests and tiny mosses.The Green Planet is in the 50+ Best PBS Documentaries, Ranked list.This showcases how living organisms keep all life on Earth going.

This documentary series explores the rich, diverse history of Asian Americans. It shows the unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs that shaped millions of people from many Asian backgrounds, from early immigration to today.

This examines the effect of the choices people make.

This spotlights Southern creators in literature, music, television, and film.

This explores the problems affecting the Gulf of Maine.

This presents untold stories of people and animals living together successfully.

Lucy Worsley investigates why the British Empire lost the War of Independence against America.

This follows the Martha Graham dancers from the studio to the stage and on a global tour.

These stories show dedication and sacrifice as animal parents face the challenge of parenthood.

This explores the relationship between Black and Jewish American communities. Henry Louis Gates Jr. hosts.

This examines the life and work of 19th-century writer Henry David Thoreau.