8 Historical Series Under 10 Episodes for People Who Hate Long Commitments

Want to learn history without committing to a 7-season epic? These short series pack in drama, accuracy, and unforgettable stories — all in 10 episodes or fewer.

1. Chernobyl (HBO) — 5 Episodes

A near-perfect dramatization of the 1986 disaster. Harrowing, precise, unforgettable.

2. John Adams (HBO) — 7 Episodes

A detailed look at the American Revolution through one of its prickliest founders.

3. The Pacific (HBO) — 10 Episodes

Grounded and emotionally intense look at WWII’s Pacific theater.

4. The British (Sky Atlantic) — 7 Episodes

Documentary-style series explaining how Britain’s identity formed over centuries.

5. Medici: Masters of Florence Season 1 — 8 Episodes

Renaissance intrigue + banking drama = surprisingly bingeable.

6. The Pillars of the Earth — 8 Episodes

Based on Ken Follett’s novel, steeped in 12th-century architecture and politics.

7. Alias Grace — 6 Episodes

A beautifully crafted period mystery set in 1840s Canada.

8. The Lost Pirate Kingdom (Netflix) — 6 Episodes

A fun, documentary-drama exploration of the real pirates of the Caribbean.

Short on time?
These titles give you the immersive feel of historical storytelling without the marathon.