This series of short episodes where each character represents a country and national stereotypes are to the fore could easily have caused offence but for the most part managed to avoid that by making all of the characters likable; although it might seem that way to me because the worst thing said about my country was that it can't cook! Most early episodes follow poor cowardly Italy as he tries to befriend Germany, they are later joined by Japan. Meanwhile another group of countries, including America, England, France, China, Russia and Canada are getting together to fight against them; this gives Italy plenty of opportunity it wave his white flag. While most of the stories take part in this time period we also see Italy's childhood with his friend Holy Rome, England finding a young America and even an appearance by poor unrecognised Sealand.
After the first episode I didn't think I'd bother with the rest but after a few months returned to the series and watched the second episode which got me hooked. Some times the change in times can be a little confusing but there are usually historical notes explaining if a new story line is beginning. With a few minor exceptions all the countries are male and while there is nothing overtly sexual going on between them viewers could be excused for thinking their friendships could have gone that way. While I wouldn't recommend using this as a way of learning history it does mention events and countries that might inspire viewers to learn more about the real countries and events. Given how short the episodes are I'd certainly recommend checking out a few to see if you like it; especially as it can currently be viewed legally on Funimation's YouTube Channel along with the next series which is known as 'Hetalia World Series'.
