Program Description

The HISTORY of Christianity and its GLOBAL IMPACT

Over the last two millennia, Jesus of Nazareth—an itinerant Jewish preacher who was publicly executed—impacted history more than any other human being. Once a persecuted minority, his followers conquered nations, created artistic and architectural masterpieces, and committed atrocities. In this sweeping 13-part documentary, Bamber Gascoigne examines Christianity not as a religion, but as a potent historical force that continues to shape our world.

Filmed on location in more than 30 countries around the globe, The Christians shows how one faith has influenced a vast array of cultures and, in turn, how it has adapted to diversity. It takes a penetrating look at emperors and evangelists, monks and madmen, artists and inquisitors as it reveals the conflicts, reconciliations, and controversies of one of the world’s most pervasive religions.

Longtime host of the popular British quiz show University Challenge, Bamber Gascoigne studied at Cambridge and earned a Harkness Fellowship at Yale. He has hosted several historical documentaries and written over a dozen books.

BONUS FEATURES

• A new introductory segment by host Bamber Gascoigne
• 14-page viewer’s guide includes highlights, questions to consider, avenues for further learning, timeline, and more.
• The Cultures of the Cross and Christ in Art photo galleries
• Architects of the Faith, select bios of people influential to Christianity