European emigrants, forgotten stories

This is the story of one of the greatest European migrations. That of people fleeing poverty or persecution and hoping for a better life. They will descend the rivers of the Rhine and the Danube, from the 17th century until the aftermath of the First World War, and will populate countries in America, Eastern Europe, Russia and the African continent.

Production

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Seasons

3 Episodes • Premiered 2025

Still image for European emigrants, forgotten stories season 1 episode 1: Towards a new world (1618-1762)

1. Towards a new world (1618-1762)

From 1618 to 1933, religious persecution, wars and poverty pushed millions of inhabitants of the Rhine and German-speaking regions into exile throughout the world. Based on testimonies brought to light by historians, this fascinating documentary fresco recounts their journeys and retraces, over three centuries, these great migratory waves that left Europe.

Still image for European emigrants, forgotten stories season 1 episode 2: The Promised Lands (1750-1848)

2. The Promised Lands (1750-1848)

From 1618 to 1933, religious persecution, wars and poverty pushed millions of inhabitants of the Rhine and German-speaking regions into exile throughout the world. Second part: in 1750, the New World attracted more and more European settlers...

Still image for European emigrants, forgotten stories season 1 episode 3: Between two worlds (1848-1933)

3. Between two worlds (1848-1933)

From 1618 to 1933, religious persecution, wars and poverty pushed millions of inhabitants of the Rhine and German-speaking regions into exile throughout the world. Last part: from the middle of the 19th century, migrations of German speakers became massive and participated in the conquest of the American West.

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