by Max Simpson ‘11

Programming on the History Channel has taken a noticeable turn over the past few years. The recent premiere of “Only in America With Larry the Cable Guy” (although it is hilarious) did not seem to fit in with the programs you would expect on a channel previously dedicated to documentaries. Other recent shows such as “Pawn Stars,” “Top Shot” and “American Pickers,” while somewhat relevant to some aspects of American history, carry more of a ratings-driven reality show feel than a traditional documentary. Even recent programs that advertise themselves as serious documentaries, such as “Battles BC,” have ridiculous, over-the-top combat scenes that would not be out of place in the action movie “300.” If you watched a show like this one as an introduction to the time period, you would get the impression that everyone fought with two swords and epically cut off heads in dramatic slow motion scenes. It is sad that a channel meant for information has put a focus on entertainment rather than drawing an audience through interest in the topics. The History Channel should get back to serious documentaries rather than follow the reality-television trend.