History of the BBC
Explore the history of the BBC since its foundation in 1922 to the present day
Explore more than 100 years of the BBC’s history – click on our interactive timeline or investigate a topical anniversary, unpack the story of fascinating objects from our varied collections, or go in-depth via one of our long-form articles.
And tell us your memories of what the BBC means to you.
Anniversaries
Open all Hours - the classic sitcom about miserly shopkeeper Arkwright and his downtrodden nephew and assistant Granville, hit the screens in February 1976. Starring Ronnie Barker and David Jason it was a huge success. Find out more about this and other BBC anniversaries here.
The BBC LGBT+ legacy
For LGBT+ History Month, explore our BBC timeline and find out how gay characters have been portrayed over the decades in BBC drama. Image: Myra Frances as Harvey and Alison Steadman as Jackie, exploring their relationship in James Robson's BBC TV drama "Girl", February 1974.
Jesus of Nazareth
The BBC marks a milestone in television history this month - the first time Jesus Christ was depicted in a drama for television. The 8-part series, Jesus of Nazareth was screened 70 years ago on what was then the BBC’s only television channel. BBC correspondent Paul Hayes takes a closer look.
The Archers at 75
Radio 4's contemporary drama in a rural setting has come of age! To mark 75 years of The Archers this month, Felicity Finch (Ruth Archer) reveals some of the lesser-known aspects of the series for the BBC Oral History Collection. Image: Felicity Finch as Ruth with baby Pip, 1993.
