Where can I learn about japanese history from a perspective of an anime otaku?

Often when I watch historical japanese anime, (such as world is dancing, airing this season), I feel lost because I never learnt the historical context. I find that periods of japanese history blend together for me with the exceptions of the 1920s/taisho era. what are some books I can check out that will give me an introductory guide of japanese history? or even, some anime that give an introductionary guide to japanese history?