I watch a lot of anime and read manga in my spare time (lol. what spare time?). Earlier this year, a friend of mine got me into a show/manga called Hetalia (literally, "useless Italy").
Hetalia is a comedy that brings to life all the different countries. They all have personalities that most of the time stereotypically represent their country. For example, America is very self centered and eats fast food all the time. England is snobby and rude to the other countries (especially America). Italy is a scared wimp who runs to Germany for help whenever he can. The list goes on and on. The way the characters interact is absolutely hysterical. Nevertheless, Hetalia also offers some valuable information in the matters of World History.
In a sense, all this crazy running about and petty fights are actually teaching you something.
What? Really?
Yes, really. In fact, I am taking World History right now, and Hetalia has helped me study for my tests. I can relate a certain event to something silly America said or a reference Japan made. Linking the two together really strengthens your knowledge of history. For the kids and adults who are struggling with history or just do not know much about it, this show definitely helps.
I went to a panel recently at Anime Weekend Atlanta. I didn't stay for the entire duration of the panel, but one of the leaders showed confessions from high school students who have seen Hetalia that reveals an increase of interest and grade scores in World History. The world is becoming more engaged and knowledgeable about the countries around them. People want to know more because the characters have encouraged them to do so. I find it so amazing!
The fandom is brilliant as well when writing historical fan fiction (well, non fiction in this case). Events in history that are not covered in the manga or the anime are created by the fans. They role play different countries and make personalities of their own (like a country that has never been made in the show). This takes something in your history book and transforms it into a silly scenario that also teaches readers. It is such a wonderful way the fandom spreads their love for the series and connect with others! The fans are extremely passionate about the countries. I myself did not like being an American. I hated our country because of all of its negative traits. But somehow, Hetalia taught me how to be proud to be an American. Everything we have been through and what we have done to become a great nation (not to mention, the personified America is very nice to look at! Haha!). In all seriousness, this show has transformed how many people see history and learn about what has come to pass.
So, even if you don't care for anime, I would give this show a watch. You'll get tons of laughs, and you'll probably learn a thing or two about World History!
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