Visual learning, according to various studies, is the best method of learning. It helps understand and retain knowledge. Central Superior Service (CSS) exams require deep understanding of historical and current affairs; therefore, these are the documentaries CSS aspirants must use as visual sources to enhance their learning experiences. I, here, list down top documentaries every CSS aspirant must watch.
1929
This documentary is about Great Depression of 1929, one of the greatest events in modern history. By learning about this event you may develop interest in economics, a field that is otherwise not a cup of tea for everyone. It will also help you understand about the Financial Crisis of 2008 and pandemic led recession of 2020. It’s recommended for both European History and US History. What you see in the United States today has deep roots in post Great Depression era – very well explained in this documentary.
Read more: 6 movies CSS aspirant can not afford to miss
It shows how world’s leading economy sinks into the Great Depression, with repercussions that allow Hitler to rise to power. Eventually, President Franklin D. Roosevelt brings hope and optimism back into the hearts of the US population.
Great Depression (1929-1939)
Dorothea Lange pic.twitter.com/2uyyz9xFKp— X-Ray Eyes (@fearofyou) May 19, 2020
WWII from Space
Knowing about World War II, which in true sense changed the course of history, should be the top priority of CSS aspirants, and this film really helps us understand the greatest event in the history.
For Sama
By watching For Sama, CSS aspirants would be able to imagine more accurately how was it like in Syrian Civil War which sent aftershocks to whole world particularly Middle East.
It is based on the life of a filmmaker, Waad al-Kateab in Aleppo, Syria, during the country’s civil war: first as a student during the Arab Spring in 2011 and then as a citizen journalist who falls in love, marries, and has a baby girl named Sama.
If you like this documentary, you should also watch White Helmet documentary. It is named after a rescue organization in which volunteers put their lives on the line to save civilians amidst the turmoil and violence in Syria.
Winston Churchill: A Giant in the Century
It is based on the life of my most favorite personality Sir Winston Churchill. This shows how British prime minister during WWII remained steadfast and strong only to encourage its citizens and defeat Hitler. There are a lot of lessons from his life for CSS aspirants.
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”
– Winston Churchill pic.twitter.com/qGLDjBKX4a— D.B. Taylor, now with 16% more Hottentot! (@DBTayor) April 21, 2021
Sir Churchill was undoubtedly the savior of the free world – you will learn in the documentary.
Napoleon (PBS)
Based on another favorite personality of mine, Napoleon by PBS can teach CSS aspirants how Napoleon Bonaparte rose to power and changed the history of the world. The series also touches upon the French Revolution, another great event CSS students should study.
World War II in Color
This is another documentary on WWII for those who have European History or US History as their optional subject or have interest in history.
With the aid of rare and unseen archive footages, recently released official documents, modern colorization techniques, state-of-the-art satellite-delivered terrain mapping and graphics, the documentary tells the full story of the Second Great War in 13 epic episodes.
Read more: CSS: Why are dreams of thousands shattered every year?
Fahad Aziz Taherani is the Coordinating Editor at Global Village Space (GVS) News Publication. He has a keen interest in Central Superior Services of Pakistan. He tweets at fahadtaherani. The views expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Global Village Space.