This is an rather outstanding series of documentaries made by China Central Television.
You may find the conclusions this series made on each individual countries one-sided and not giving the whole picture. It is true, but keep in mind that the series generally looks at economic development, the other issues surrounding it, and, at the end, i would say it consciously looking for things in history that China can learn from, therefore it is talking about development rather than solely talking about history.
I violate their copyright since I think it deserves an wider audience and CCTV actually show the whole series on their website as well.
CCTV, free feel to contact me if you what these videos removed.
For all the others, enjoy.