‎Civilizations: Rise and Fall - Apple TV

TV Show · Documentary · History

They were the greatest civilizations in history. Each believed they would live on forever. But each suffered a devastating decline. From the Ancient Egyptians and the mighty Roman Empire to the samurai of Japan and the Aztec Kings, expert testimony and dramatic reconstruction unpicks why these great empires collapsed, using the treasures they left behind to unlock the secrets of their demise.

2025 · 50m

Starring Sophie Okonedo

EPISODE 1

The Fall of Rome

When new Roman emperor Honorius ascended to the throne in 395 AD, he inherited a system of government that built one of the most remarkable civilizations in history. For over 400 years, the Roman Empire ruled a vast territory. But a series of shocks and threats collide in a perfect storm that will see the weakened city of Rome fall to foreign invaders for the first time in 800 years.
EPISODE 2

The Last Days of the Ptolemies in Egypt

In 51 BC, Cleopatra became Queen, and Pharaoh, of Egypt. She faced a crumbling dynasty plagued by infighting, betrayal, war and political chaos. Determined to preserve Egypt’s independence, she forged bold alliances with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, two of the most powerful men in history. But her reign marked the end for the Ptolemaic dynasty and three millennia of Pharaonic rule in Egypt.
EPISODE 3

The Collapse of the Aztec Empire

Emperor Moctezuma built the mighty Aztec civilization. But his grip on power was fragile.
EPISODE 4

The End of the Samurai in Japan

The samurai represented Japan's feudal, medieval society. But their days were numbered.

Civilizations: Rise and Fall

Empire with David Olusoga
Plantagenets
Chivalry and Betrayal: The Hundred Years War
Ancient Top 10
Curse of the Ancients with Alice Roberts
The Silk Road
The Ascent of Civilization
The Queens That Changed the World
Ancient Worlds

Sophie Okonedo

Narrator
Anthony Mitchell

Producer
Alexander Leith

Producer