Echoes of History
History Hit & Assassin's Creed
Dive into the real-life history that inspires the locations, characters, and storylines of the legendary world of Assassin’s Creed. ‘Echoes of History’ is the official Assassin's Creed history podcast. We’ll head down the narrow side streets of Medici-ruled Florence, cross sand dunes in the shadow of ancient pyramids, climb the rigging of 18th century brigs sailing across the Caribbean and meet the most powerful warlords in Feudal Japan - all before hearing from the developers themselves to understand how and why these moments are recreated in the acclaimed historical game series.Every week, join historian Matt Lewis, and regular contributor Holly Nielsen, as they speak to historical experts about the secrets of the past and uncover how these stories influence Assassin’s Creed.A Ubisoft podcast brought to you by History Hit.If you liked this podcast please subscribe, share, rate & review. For more Echoes of History, including guided tours through the places of the past recreated in Assassin’s Creed, head to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@assassinscreedEOH To find out more go to www.assassinscreed.com or find us on Facebook & Twitter.(Re)discover Assassin’s Creed full catalogue with Ubisoft+”Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.You can take part in our listener survey here: https://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 21, 2025 • 60min
Assassins and Templars in the Crusades
The heart of the Assassin’s Creed franchise is the deadly rivalry between the brotherhoods of Assassins and Templars. These were real groups in history, whose power and influence in their lifetimes matched the longevity of their reputations. But how much of what we know of the two organisations is myth, and what is reality?To help separate fact from fiction, Matt Lewis is joined by Dr Steve Tibble, author of Assassins and Templars: A Battle in Myth and Blood. Echoes of History is a Ubisoft podcast, brought to you by History Hit. Watch these interviews and exclusive videos on our YouTube channel.Hosted by: Matt LewisEdited by: Michael McDaidProduced by: Robin McConnellSenior Producer: Anne-Marie LuffProduction Manager: Beth DonaldsonExecutive Producers: Etienne Bouvier, Julien Fabre, Steve Lanham, Jen BennettMusic by Jesper KydIf you liked this podcast please subscribe, share, rate & review. Take part in our listener survey here.Tell us your favourite Assassin's Creed game or podcast episode at echoes-of-history@historyhit.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jul 14, 2025 • 58min
Crusaders And Castles: The Siege Of Acre
The first Assassin's Creed game puts players in the thick of the Siege of Acre during the Third Crusade. We can climb its battlements and fight in the shadow of its mighty walls. In this episode, Dr Nicolas Morton from Nottingham Trent University returns to help Matt Lewis explore how the confluence of cultures in the Holy Land produced unique features to Crusader Castles, and what methods could be used to overcome their defences, as demonstrated in the truly epic Siege of Acre.Echoes of History is a Ubisoft podcast, brought to you by History Hit. Watch these interviews and exclusive videos on our YouTube channel.Hosted by: Matt LewisEdited by: Michael McDaidProduced by: Robin McConnellSenior Producer: Anne-Marie LuffProduction Manager: Beth DonaldsonExecutive Producers: Etienne Bouvier, Julien Fabre, Steve Lanham, Jen BennettMusic:City of Jerusalem by Jesper KydMeditation Begins by Jesper KydIf you liked this podcast please subscribe, share, rate & review. Take part in our listener survey here.Tell us your favourite Assassin's Creed game or podcast episode at echoes-of-history@historyhit.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jul 7, 2025 • 54min
Crusader Queens of Jerusalem
The very first Assassin's Creed video game takes us back to the Third Crusade, and the Kingdom of Jerusalem. As Saladin's Islamic armies tried to reconquer the Holy Land, the Christian rulers of Jerusalem faced as many threats from within as without - perhaps none moreso than Sybilla and Isabella, women who ruled in a men’s world.Matt Lewis is joined by Katherine Pangonis to help understand how these women rose to power - and held onto it - at such a perilous time.Echoes of History is a Ubisoft podcast, brought to you by History Hit. Watch these interviews and exclusive videos on our YouTube channel.Hosted by: Matt LewisEdited by: Michael McDaidProduced by: Robin McConnellSenior Producer: Anne-Marie LuffProduction Manager: Beth DonaldsonExecutive Producers: Etienne Bouvier, Julien Fabre, Steve Lanham, Jen BennettMusic:City of Jerusalem by Jesper KydFlight Through Jerusalem by Jesper KydMeditation Begins by Jesper KydIf you liked this podcast please subscribe, share, rate & review. Take part in our listener survey here.Tell us your favourite Assassin's Creed game or podcast episode at echoes-of-history@historyhit.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 30, 2025 • 54min
The Seven Years War In Assassin's Creed Rogue
Ubisoft Developer Interview with James NadigerAssassin’s Creed Rogue lets players explore the frozen world of the Arctic coastline of North America. Players inhabit the memories of Shay Cormac, an Irish Assassin who switches sides to join the Templars, against the backdrop of the Seven Years’ War, or as its American theatre is known, the French-Indian War.Dr Holly Nielsen is joined by James Nadiger, scriptwriter on Assassin’s Creed Rogue, to shed light on the dramatic shifts behind this unusual entry in the series.Echoes of History is a Ubisoft podcast, brought to you by History Hit. Watch these interviews and exclusive videos on our YouTube channel.Hosted by: Dr Holly NielsenEdited by: Robin McConnellProduced by: Robin McConnell, Dr Holly NielsenSenior Producer: Anne-Marie LuffProduction Manager: Beth DonaldsonExecutive Producers: Etienne Bouvier, Julien Fabre, Steve Lanham, Jen BennettMusic:The Streets by Elitsa AlexandrovaI Am Shay Cormac by Elitsa AlexandrovaIf you liked this podcast please subscribe, share, rate & review. Take part in our listener survey here.Tell us your favourite Assassin's Creed game or podcast episode at echoes-of-history@historyhit.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 23, 2025 • 39min
The Northwest Passage: Doom of Arctic Explorers
Historian Ken McGoogan, a specialist in Arctic exploration, shares gripping stories about the quest for the elusive Northwest Passage. He uncovers the harrowing experiences of explorers grappling with unforgiving icy waters and treacherous conditions. McGoogan discusses the motivations behind these epic voyages, from the lucrative fur trade to the famous legends of doomed expeditions like the Franklin Expedition. He also highlights the pivotal contributions of figures like John Ray and the crucial role Indigenous peoples played in navigating this harsh terrain.
11 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 32min
Captain Cook: The Ultimate Explorer?
Historian Ken McGoogan, known for his exploration books, joins to discuss Captain James Cook's legacy. They delve into Cook's exceptional navigation skills and his portrayal in the video game Assassin's Creed Rogue. The conversation highlights the complexities of his interactions with indigenous peoples and critiques historical interpretations. McGoogan also reflects on Cook’s self-taught background and the challenges he faced as a naval leader. Join them as they explore pivotal moments from Cook's voyages and his controversial legacy.
Jun 9, 2025 • 1h 3min
What Caused The Seven Years' War?
Professor Emma Hart, an expert in 18th-century history, joins Dan Snow to dissect the Seven Years' War, often termed the first world war. They delve into the intricate dynamics between British and French forces in North America, and the pivotal role of Indigenous alliances. Hart illuminates how the conflict reshaped colonial ambitions and impacted future relations, especially in the Ohio Valley. The discussion also touches on military strategies, key victories, and the Treaty of Paris's far-reaching implications, setting the stage for the American Revolutionary War.
16 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 1h 7min
Ancient Greek Architecture In Assassin's Creed Odyssey
In this fascinating discussion, Benjamin Hall, the World Director of Assassin's Creed Odyssey, shares insights into recreating ancient Greece for the game. He explains how historians helped ensure authentic representations, even blending gameplay with significant historical events like the Peloponnesian War. The conversation delves into the challenges of merging historical accuracy with engaging storytelling and the intricacies of designing immersive environments, all while honoring the cultural richness of ancient Greece.
9 snips
May 26, 2025 • 39min
The Minoan Labyrinth: Myth or Reality?
In this fascinating discussion, Professor Nicoletta Momigliano from the University of Bristol shares her expertise on Minoan civilization and the myth of the Minotaur. She dives deep into the origins of the labyrinth myth connected to Crete’s Palace of Knossos, exploring how history and mythology intertwine. Listeners learn about the archaeological discoveries that reshape our understanding of ancient architecture. Nicoletta also connects these myths to modern culture, including video games, while emphasizing the significance of preserving historical sites.
17 snips
May 19, 2025 • 47min
Xanthippe: The Formidable Wife of Socrates
In this engaging discussion, Professor Michael Griffin delves into the dynamic relationship between Socrates and his wife, Xanthippe. Griffin highlights Xanthippe's independent mind, showcasing how her spirited character influenced Socratic thought. He explores the challenges of representing women's voices in ancient Greece and the collaborative nature of their philosophy. The conversation also touches on other significant women, like Aspasia and Diotima, revealing their crucial roles in shaping Socrates' ideas and challenging traditional narratives around gender and philosophy.
