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Engineering an Empire

(Rated TV-PG, Educational, Starring Peter Weller, Where to watch: History)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 5, age appropriate for kids over 8; suggested age 8.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0

  • Common Sense says

    History lessons for tech-friendly families.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 8 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    The point of the show is to educate a broad audience about history and technology. There's objective description of slavery, warfare, and other unsavory topics. Women's place in historical events isn't mentioned much. Scholars include women and people from the location being described, though the lens is generally Euro-centric.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence & scariness:

    Much discussion of battles and wars, including details about weaponry and description of weapon effectiveness. Some hints of blood.

  • Sexy stuff:

    In at least one episode, statues of male and female nudes appear in the background. Discussion of ancient marriage practices, including sibling marriage and polygamy.

  • Language:

    Not an issue.

  • Consumerism:

    Short "fact" segments are sponsored by advertisers (for example, Nationwide Insurance). Alcohol ads air between segments.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Possibility of historical discussion of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Engineering an Empire

Parents need to know that this engaging educational show uses reenactments (some realistic, others computer-generated) to depict historical events including battles and, in one instance, human sacrifice. These scenes are usually mild, with only a hint of blood. Some shows may include descriptions of unusual socio-cultural practices, like sibling marriage or polygamy.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the connections between history and contemporary living. How do some of the engineering feats seen on the show affect life today? Are kids or parents surprised to learn where certain things originated? Can kids think of something in their lives that could be improved through engineering? What did you learn from each episode?
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