7 Best Anime for History Buffs, Ranked

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Anime has exploded in popularity worldwide, something many fans once doubted would happen. Recent successes like the films from Demon Slayer and Chainsaw Man show that anime can easily cross cultural boundaries and achieve mainstream success. As more people turn to anime for exciting new content, we’re seeing a growing number of diverse and creative series released across all kinds of popular genres.

Although fantasy and science fiction are the most popular anime genres, especially for shows aimed at young men (shonen) and older men (seinen), there’s a lot more to discover. Historical anime, often blended with other genres, are surprisingly influential and create captivating stories set in the past. While these shows don’t always stick to historical facts, they offer unique and detailed world-building you don’t often find in modern anime. Here’s a list of some excellent historical anime that every fan should check out.

7) The Rose of Versailles

After years of requests from devoted fans, a film adaptation of the classic manga series The Rose of Versailles was released in early 2025. The original manga, created in 1972, is known for broadening the appeal of shojo manga to a wider audience. The film is a historical drama set in 18th-century France, focusing on the lives of nobles and the royal court. It presents a fictionalized account of the relationship between Marie Antoinette and Oscar François de Jarjayes, and is notable for its beautiful, painterly visuals, exploration of historical gender roles, and captivating love story.

6) Black Butler

Though it’s often considered a dark fantasy, Black Butler incorporates a historical setting to enhance its unique atmosphere. First released in 2008, the series has five seasons and several OVAs that cover key story arcs from the manga. Black Butler masterfully combines supernatural elements, the gritty side of Victorian London, and intriguing mysteries into a captivating Gothic story that has remained popular with fans for over a decade. The story centers around Ciel Phantomhive and his demon butler, Sebastian, as they work to avenge the deaths of Ciel’s parents.

5) Dororo

Despite debuting in 2019, the anime Dororo remains a hidden gem, not yet receiving the praise it deserves for its compelling reimagining of a beloved story. This 24-episode series is a reboot of the original 1969 anime and also inspired a live-action adaptation in 2007. Set in 15th-century Japan during a turbulent era of war and political unrest, Dororo follows Hyakkimaru, a wandering samurai, and his young friend Dororo. Together, they journey across the land as Hyakkimaru seeks to recover the body parts stolen from him by his father in a dark ritual. It’s a powerful story about revenge, finding redemption, the harsh realities of war, and the value of genuine human connection.

4) Baccano!

If you’re looking for a hidden anime treasure, check out Baccano!. Though it originally aired in 2007, this 16-episode series doesn’t get talked about enough, especially considering its fantastic story and humor. Set in 1930s America – specifically New York and Chicago – Baccano! follows the lives of criminals, gangsters, and even alchemists. What really sets it apart is its unique, non-linear plot. The story jumps between different characters and storylines that eventually connect. If you enjoy fast-paced, funny, and unpredictable shows, Baccano! is definitely worth a watch.

3) Leviathan

Leviathan is a fantastic anime series blending historical fiction with science fiction, available on Netflix. Released in July 2025, it’s based on the novels of the same name by Scott Westerfield. To create the novels’ unique atmosphere, the animation studio, Studio Orange, used a special 3D CG animation style, making the show look incredibly realistic. The anime is set in a steampunk version of World War I, where humans battle using giant machines against bio-engineered creatures. The story follows two teenagers on opposite sides of the conflict who must team up as they travel the world.

2) The Apothecary Diaries

Since its release in 2023, The Apothecary Diaries has become incredibly popular with anime fans. A third season is already planned for fall 2026, following the debut of its second season this year. The show offers a unique spin on palace intrigue, taking place in an empire inspired by ancient China. It centers around Maomao, a young servant and food taster within the Imperial Palace. Combining mystery, drama, romance, and political scheming, The Apothecary Diaries is a captivating series that truly stands out from other anime in recent years.

1) Vinland Saga

Considered one of the greatest historical anime series, Vinland Saga has steadily gained popularity since its 2019 debut. After a long wait, the second season premiered in 2023, and fans are eagerly anticipating news about a third season now that the manga is finished. Set in the early 11th century, the series explores the world of Vikings and their way of life. The story follows Thorfinn, a young boy who seeks revenge for his father’s murder at the hands of a notorious Viking mercenary, all set against a backdrop of war and societal change. Vinland Saga delves into complex themes like revenge, war, redemption, forgiveness, and the impact of violence.

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2025-12-25 17:42