Game of Thrones, and the book series that inspired the show A Song Of Ice And Fire, clearly take place in a fictional world of fantasy, since there are White Walkers, giants, fire breathing dragons and such.
However, the political conflict that serves as the heart of the main storyline is inspired by real history.
We know The Wars Of The Roses, which took place in England during the 15th century. sits at the top of the list of influences, but who, what and when else inspired Martin's epic series?
Let George R. R. Martin himself, along with an assortment of well read historians, recount the many ways history has inspired the series that so seamlessly blends fantasy and reality.