Hetalia

This is a truly bizarre, random anime. But man, is it likable! The premise of the show is that all of the major world countries, like France, America, or Russia, are personified as people, with their characters living out the stereotypes of that culture (France is a bit promiscuous, America loves fast food, Germany is uptight, etc). While one could see this show as incredibly racist (which is a totally valid argument), it is done in a light-hearted, joking fashion, with the characters also having over-the-top accents and renditions of their various stereotypes.

Hetalia was originally a webcomic that was then expanded into a couple animes, with episodes of about 5 minutes in length. The most popular of these is Hetalia: Axis Powers, which takes place, as one would presume, during World War II. The major Axis powers: Italy, Germany, and Japan, as well as the major Allies powers: England, America, France, Russia, and China. While this sounds like the perfect set up for something that completes messes up in terms of history, Hetalia actually has its history facts exactly right. In fact, most people who watch it end up knowing more useful historical information than before they watched it.

This show is not for everyone. As aforementioned, it can come across as racist and offensive, and even for those who don't think of it that way, it is a very 'anime' anime- perpetuating a lot of the common anime cliches. For example, in most episodes there is a subplot done completely in chibi. Also, the episodes, since they are short and based on a webcomic, are random and seemingly unconnected/without a plot. But for those of you who have seen anime before and know what to expect, are not offended by stuff like that, and have a scattered brain, it is perfect.

For those of you that are considering watching it, there is another thing going for it- cuteness. This anime is cuteness overload, with the previously mentioned chibi subplot, adorably designed characters, plenty of fanservice, a thriving, obsessive fanbase that loves its ships, and likable, funny characters. The cast is so vast there is bound to be a character you like, whether it be pasta-loving, dofus Italy, aloof, intelligent Japan, surly, flighty England, or any of the other characters.

All in all, it is a likable, albeit a bit eccentric, show will decent characters and funny renditions of racial stereotypes that will teach you World War II history.

video used: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGSoY_Zt5Es