History Detectives (PBS)
common sense media says
Lively series reveals history's everyday secrets.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this educational series follows experts who try to uncover long-hidden mysteries submitted by viewers. The topics are wide-ranging (from the Civil War to Mickey Mouse to Charles Lindbergh), and most of the investigations center on a particular object. Weapons are presented in a historical context -- for example, one investigation centers on a gun that may have been owned by an infamous Nazi. Drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are also occasionally presented in historical context (examples: a Whiskey Rebellion flask and a Chinese opium scale). The show's investigators demonstrate that history is fascinating, fun, and occasionally frustrating (when they run into dead ends), and they keep viewers in the loop as they combine forensics, appraisals, ballistics, and other techniques to solve their cases. The show moves at a lively pace (three mysteries are investigated in each hour-long episode), but most cases present a good bit of historical detail, so younger kids who aren't into history may lose interest.
Positive role models:
Investigators are dedicated and passionate about history. All are knowledgeable in their field.
Violence:
Weapons, war, and crimes are discussed in historical terms.
Sex:
Not applicable.
Language:
Not applicable.
Consumerism:
Commercial items are discussed in historical terms (ex. Mickey Mouse; Coca-Cola).
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
Alcohol, tobacco, and drugs may be discussed in historical context.
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