The History Channel is one of the most popular history-based television networks on the market. The development of the company started in 1993, when it purchased the documentary library of Lou Reda Productions and secured rights to the Hearst Entertainment documentaries archive. The History Channel was launched in the US in 1995. The UK version aired shortly after the channel partnered with British Sky Broadcasting.

This channel is owned by A&E Networks as a joint venture between Hearst Communications and Disney Media Networks. Currently, the channel is distributed across six continents. The History Channel rebranded on March 20, 2009, with a new name of History.

After some expansion over the years, History currently has three sister channels offering programs outside the regular lineup: Military History, History en Español and History TV18.

History is one of the most widely accessible channels in the US. In 2015, around 82.6% of households had access to its programs.

Today, History primarily broadcasts history-based documentaries and fiction. They also offer reality TV series and investigative pieces. The distributed programs cover a broad time frame and feature an extensive range of topics – from aviation, technology and mythical creatures to aliens and conspiracy theories.

In addition to this lineup, History also produces one of the most popular fictional TV shows of the decade: Vikings. Furthermore, they delve into American history with shows like American Pickers and Pawn Stars.

Most viewers watch History during weekdays, with evenings being the most popular time. Between 60% to 80% of all History viewers tune into popular TV shows and documentary series.

History’s main demographic are viewers over the age of 55, who comprise 42% of the audience. They are followed by the 35 to 54 age group, who make up 36% of the viewership. The smallest demographic group consists of 18 to 34 year olds, making up 22% of the total number.

The channel primarily focuses on historical events and people, while the sister channels provide content for specific regions, languages and areas of history.

Military History’s main focus is historical warfare and individual stories on key figures from major battles. They also offer in-depth analyses on battle strategies, prominent military figures and people who were involved in hostilities.

History en Español targets the Latin American audience. They offer 24-hour programs in relation to Latin America and world history, as well as Spanish-dubbed versions of popular History programs or shows.

History TV18 mainly covers the pan-Indian viewership. It’s available in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu, and its programs mainly target historical people and events relating to the Indian subcontinent.

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