AI-generated history videos are going viral on TikTok, but how accurate are they?

The AI history phenomenon: TikTok creators are using artificial intelligence to generate first-person perspective videos that simulate waking up in different historical periods, from ancient Rome to the Black Death era, attracting millions of views.

• Two prominent creators, Dan (POV Lab) and Hogne (Time Traveller POV), produce these videos to make history more engaging and accessible
• The videos incorporate period-specific visual and audio elements to create immersive historical experiences
• Some clips have garnered massive attention, with one Black Death-themed video receiving 53 million views

Historical accuracy concerns: Professional historians have identified numerous inaccuracies and oversimplifications in these AI-generated historical recreations.

• Dr. Amy Boyington describes the medieval-themed content as “amateurish” and lacking historical accuracy
• Specific errors include anachronistic elements like glazed windows and train tracks in 1300s scenes
• Dr. Hannah Platts points out inaccuracies in Pompeii videos, including modern bread loaves and incorrect dining customs

Creator perspective: The video creators acknowledge the limitations of their work while defending its educational value.

• Dan admits his videos prioritize evoking historical atmosphere over complete accuracy
• Hogne spends approximately eight hours per video and relies on ChatGPT for historical research
• Both creators emphasize their content is meant to spark interest in history rather than replace formal education

Professional critique: Historians express broader concerns about the potential impact of these videos on historical understanding.

• Dr. Boyington warns about the potential for historical manipulation through AI-generated content
• Professor Elizabeth Frood notes these videos tend to oversimplify complex historical periods
• Experts worry about younger viewers accepting these representations as historical fact

Technical process: The creation of these historical AI videos involves a complex combination of tools and research.

• Creators use multiple AI tools to generate images, animate scenes, and create authentic sound effects
• The process requires detailed prompts specifying historical elements to prevent AI from adding anachronistic details
• Research involves consulting various sources, though the creators acknowledge limitations in their historical expertise

Looking ahead: The intersection of AI and historical education presents both opportunities and challenges for the future of educational content.

• Creators expect AI tools to improve in accuracy and capability over time
• Historians suggest the need for greater transparency in source materials and research methods
• The potential for these videos to serve as gateways to deeper historical study remains, despite current limitations