From enthralling historical dramas to compelling civil rights stories, historically based movies can give students a more concrete way to get invested in people and events from long ago. But before pressing play on a historical movie and calling it a well-rounded history lesson, it’s important to know how to best approach historical films.
The most important thing to remember when using movies to aid in historical education is that no movie is going to be 100% historically accurate. Even the most carefully researched historical films are liable to include dramatic embellishments, composite characters, or fictional storylines used to push the plot forward and add cinematic value. The main goal of filmmakers is to entertain an audience and tell a compelling story, not necessarily to provide a textbook-style education.
Because of this, historical movies should never be used as the primary method of teaching history. Instead, they should be utilized as supplemental tools, because movies are an excellent way to:
Employing films to encourage class discussions, primary source analysis, or writing assignments can help students dig deeper and think more critically about the real events behind the drama of historical movies.
However, it is also important to note that this list does not include content warnings for language, violence, adult themes, or sexual content. As always, parents are encouraged to preview each film and decide what is most appropriate for their students. While many of these films are valuable educational tools that can lead to a deeper understanding of history, some include mature content that may not be suitable for students of all ages.
That being said, not all history movies are created equal. Some focus on entertainment and engagement, while others are more concerned about remaining historically accurate or showing the story from a new perspective. However, all of the films below will encourage deeper thinking about the topic and allow students to engage with history. In no particular order, here are 20 of the best movies to supplement teaching history.
1. Glory (1989)
MPAA Rating: R
Glory tells the story of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, the first African American unit in the Civil War. The film follows the regiment from its formation through intense training, facing racism from both Confederate forces and the Union army. Despite limited resources and constant prejudice, the soldiers prove their courage and discipline, culminating in a heroic but deadly assault on Fort Wagner.
This movie highlights sacrifice and the struggle for dignity and equality. Glory is an excellent tool for teaching history because it brings to life the contributions of black soldiers in the Civil War and illustrates the complexities of race, leadership, and courage. It encourages critical discussions about systemic racism and the evolution of civil rights in America.
2. Schindler’s List (1994)
MPAA Rating: R
Schindler’s List follows the story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who initially profits from World War II by employing Jewish workers in his factory. As he witnesses the horrors of the Holocaust, Schindler transforms from a profiteer to a savior, risking his wealth and life to protect over a thousand Jews.
Through Schindler’s moral awakening, the story emphasizes the impact one individual can have in the face of overwhelming evil. Schindler’s List is a powerful educational tool because it provides a deeply human perspective on the Holocaust, as it fosters empathy and a deeper understanding of one of history’s darkest periods.
3. The Longest Day (1962)
MPAA Rating: G
The Longest Day is a World War II film that dramatizes the D-Day invasion of Normandy. This movie features multiple storylines to show the scale and complexity of the operation. It highlights the planning, execution, and chaos of the invasion, emphasizing the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers on all sides. Through its detailed reenactments, the movie captures the tension and significance of this turning point in the war.
The film presents a comprehensive and multinational view of D-Day, illustrating the coordination required for such a massive military operation. Its historical scope and attention to military detail help students visualize and understand the events and strategies of World War II.
4. A Night to Remember (1958)
MPAA Rating: Unrated
A Night to Remember recounts the tragic sinking of the Titanic after it strikes an iceberg in the North Atlantic. The film focuses on the experiences of both passengers and crew as they confront the unfolding disaster. The movie is known for its historical accuracy and restrained, documentary-style approach to the catastrophe.
The film is valuable for teaching history because it offers a realistic and respectful depiction of the Titanic disaster, emphasizing human behavior under crisis and the social dynamics of the early 20th century. Its factual basis encourages critical thinking about maritime safety, class inequality, and historical interpretation.
5. The Miracle Worker (1962)
MPAA Rating: PG
The Miracle Worker depicts the story of Helen Keller, a young girl who is blind and deaf, and her determined teacher, Anne Sullivan. The film focuses on Anne’s struggle to break through Helen’s frustration and isolation using discipline, compassion, and innovative teaching methods. Despite intense challenges, Anne eventually teaches Helen to communicate using sign language.
The film is useful for teaching history because it highlights the importance of education and perseverance. It also provides insight into the lives of two influential historical figures and the development of special education in America.
6. Gettysburg (1993)
MPAA Rating: PG
Gettysburg is a historical war film that depicts the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. The movie explores the strategies, decisions, and personal struggles of both Union and Confederate leaders, including General Robert E. Lee and Colonel Joshua Chamberlain. It portrays the combat, high stakes, and the cost of the battle that became a turning point in the war.
The film emphasizes honor, duty, and the conflicting values that divided the nation. Gettysburg is helpful for teaching history because it offers a detailed and balanced portrayal of a key Civil War battle. Its character-driven approach helps students connect with the historical figures and understand the complexity of the conflict.
7. The Patriot (2000)
MPAA Rating: R
The Patriot is a fictionalized account of the American Revolutionary War, centered on Benjamin Martin, a reluctant veteran who joins the fight after his family is threatened. The film follows Martin as he leads a militia against British forces and portrays the emotional toll of war, the fight for independence, and the sacrifices made by ordinary citizens.
With dramatic battle scenes and a focus on family, it highlights both the brutality and ideals of the Revolution. This film is valuable for teaching history because it introduces students to key themes of the Revolutionary War, such as colonial resistance, guerrilla warfare, and the role of civilians. While not necessarily historically accurate, it sparks interest in the era and encourages deeper investigation into the real events and figures of the time.
8. The Imitation Game (2014)
MPAA Rating: PG-13
The Imitation Game tells the story of Alan Turing, a brilliant mathematician who helps crack Nazi Germany’s Enigma code during World War II. Working with a team at Bletchley Park, Turing develops a groundbreaking machine that accelerates Allied victory but faces opposition for his unconventional methods.
His contributions to computing and wartime efforts remained unrecognized for decades due to government secrecy. This movie is great for teaching history because it highlights the role of codebreaking in World War II and the early development of computer science.
9. Harriet (2019)
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Harriet tells the inspiring story of Harriet Tubman, an escaped slave who became one of the most courageous and successful conductors of the Underground Railroad. Through visions and unwavering faith, Harriet navigates dangerous territory to lead others to safety. Her bravery, determination, and leadership make her a symbol of resistance and freedom.
This film is useful for teaching history because it brings to life the realities of slavery, the operation of the Underground Railroad, and the heroic efforts of African Americans in the fight for freedom. It encourages reflection on civil rights, resilience, and the power of individual action in shaping history.
10. The Right Stuff (1984)
MPAA Rating: PG
The Right Stuff depicts the early years of the U.S. space program, focusing on the lives and challenges of the first astronauts known as the Mercury Seven. The film highlights their rigorous training, personal sacrifices, and the intense pressure of the Cold War space race against the Soviet Union. It also explores themes of bravery, patriotism, and the pioneering spirit that drove America’s push into space.
This movie is valuable for teaching history because it offers insight into the technological, political, and cultural factors that shaped the early space program. It inspires interest in science and history by illustrating the broader significance of the space race during the Cold War.
11. Iron Jawed Angels (2014)
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Iron Jawed Angels tells the compelling story of the women’s suffrage movement in the United States, focusing on activists Alice Paul and Lucy Burns. The film follows their relentless fight for the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. It portrays the challenges they faced from both the government and society, as well as their strategic use of media and civil disobedience.
The movie emphasizes courage, determination, and the power of grassroots activism. It is great for teaching history because it sheds light on a pivotal era in the struggle for women’s rights and democracy. It encourages discussions about social justice and political activism.
12. Lincoln (2012)
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Lincoln focuses on the final months of President Abraham Lincoln’s life as he works to pass the Thirteenth Amendment. The film highlights the intense political maneuvering, debates, and compromises Lincoln faces in a deeply divided Congress during the Civil War. It portrays Lincoln’s leadership and moral conviction through various challenges, as the movie reveals the complexity of governance during a transformative period in American history.
This film is valuable for teaching history because it offers a detailed look at the political process behind a landmark constitutional change and the human qualities of one of America’s most important leaders. It encourages critical thinking about leadership, justice, and the difficult decisions involved in shaping a nation’s future.
13. The Diary of Anne Frank (1959)
MPAA Rating: PG
The Diary of Anne Frank is a film adaptation of the actual diary of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl hiding from the Nazis during World War II. The story follows Anne and her family as they struggle with fear, hope, and the challenges of confinement. Through Anne’s eyes, the film captures the innocence and resilience of youth amid the horrors of the Holocaust.
It ultimately reveals the tragic fate of the family and the enduring impact of Anne’s words. The Diary of Anne Frank is useful for teaching history because it provides a personal and human perspective on the Holocaust, making the vast tragedy more relatable and impactful.
14. Hamilton (2020)
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Hamilton is a fun musical that tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s Founding Fathers, through dynamic showtunes. The show follows Hamilton’s rise from an orphaned immigrant to a key figure in the American Revolution and the early government, highlighting his ambitions, relationships, and controversies.
It explores themes of legacy and politics while showing the creation of the United States. This musical is great for teaching history because it makes the founding era engaging for modern audiences, connecting past events with contemporary music. Its creative approach encourages students to explore the complexities of early American politics, identity, and nation-building.
15. Apollo 13 (1995)
MPAA Rating: PG
Apollo 13 tells the story of NASA’s ill-fated 1970 lunar mission, which turns into a tense struggle for survival after an onboard explosion. Astronauts Jim Lovell, Fred Haise, and Jack Swigert must work with ground control to safely return to Earth, despite limited power, oxygen, and growing uncertainty.
The film highlights the ingenuity, teamwork, and calm under pressure that define NASA’s response. This movie is valuable for teaching history because it demonstrates the challenges of the space race and the resilience of human problem-solving under extreme conditions.
16. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (2008)
MPAA Rating: PG-13
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas is a fictional story set during the Holocaust, told through the eyes of Bruno, the young son of a Nazi commandant. After moving near a concentration camp, Bruno befriends Shmuel, a Jewish boy imprisoned there. Unaware of the camp’s true nature, Bruno’s innocence leads to a tragic ending when he sneaks inside to help Shmuel and is caught in the horrors of the Holocaust.
The film explores the theme of friendship and the devastating consequences of prejudice. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas is useful for teaching history because it offers a personal and emotional entry point into the Holocaust. While the story is fictional, it encourages critical discussions about morality, indoctrination, and the human impact of genocide.
17. 12 Years a Slave (2013)
MPAA Rating: R
12 Years a Slave is based on the true story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man from New York who is kidnapped and sold into slavery in the American South. The film follows his harrowing journey through multiple plantations, where he endures brutal treatment while seeking a way back to freedom. It highlights the cruelty of slavery, resilience, and the injustice of slavery.
Solomon’s eventual rescue after twelve years of life in slavery emphasizes both personal and systemic tragedy. This movie is great for teaching history because it presents a fairly accurate portrayal of slavery’s brutality. It challenges viewers to confront the realities of American history and reflect on its lasting impact.
18. Midway (2019)
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Midway tells the story of the World War II Battle of Midway, focusing on the intelligence efforts and heroic actions that led to a major U.S. victory over the Japanese navy. The film follows key military figures on both sides of the battle as they navigate the high stakes of war in the Pacific. It highlights themes of bravery, sacrifice, and strategic decision-making under pressure.
This film is valuable for teaching history because it illustrates the importance of military intelligence, leadership, and technological advancement in wartime. It provides insight into a critical moment in World War II and encourages discussion about the broader strategies and consequences of the conflict.
19. Seabiscuit (2003)
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Seabiscuit tells the story of an unlikely champion racehorse who inspired the nation during the difficult times brought by the Great Depression. The film follows a jockey, a forward-thinking trainer, and a wealthy businessman, all of whom find hope and redemption through their bond with the racehorse Seabiscuit. As the underestimated horse begins to win against top competitors, he becomes a symbol of perseverance and resilience.
It is set in the 1930s, and the movie captures the common struggles of the American people during the time period and the power of shared triumph. Seabiscuit is useful for teaching history because it illustrates how sports, media, and determination provided hope during one of the most difficult times in American history.
20. The King’s Speech (2010)
MPAA Rating: R
The King’s Speech tells the tale of Prince Albert, who becomes King George VI of Britain and must overcome a severe stutter to lead his nation during a time of crisis. With the help of speech therapist Lionel Logue, he works to find his voice and deliver a crucial radio address at the start of World War II.
This film emphasizes determination, courage, and the human side of royalty. The King’s Speech is great for teaching history because it offers insight into the British monarchy, the use of media in leadership, and the emotional challenges behind historical figures. It encourages discussions about communication, mental health, and the importance of resilience during national and personal trials.
Historical films can be an excellent way to create engagement, especially for students who may struggle with staying enthralled in traditional textbooks. They create emotional connections, help students visualize the past, and encourage important questions to be asked.
However, no movie should be treated as a textbook. Films should not be used as a primary method of teaching history, and it is important to always provide additional context, discuss what was true in a movie versus what was embellished, and pair films with primary sources to ensure students learn enough information to see the full picture.
The thoughts and opinions expressed are those of the author and should not be taken to represent the views of Excelsior Classes, LLC or the consortium of teachers.
