American History Hit
History Hit
Join Don Wildman twice a week for your hit of American history, as he explores the past to help us understand the United States of today. We’ll hear how codebreakers uncovered secret Japanese plans for the Battle of Midway, visit Chief Powhatan as he prepares for war with the British, see Walt Disney accuse his former colleagues of being communists, and uncover the dark history that lies beneath Central Park. From pre-colonial America to independence, slavery to civil rights, the gold rush to the space race, join Don as he speaks to leading experts to delve into America’s past. New episodes every Monday and Thursday. Brought to you by History Hit, the award-winning podcast network and world’s best history channel on demand, featuring shows like Dan Snow’s History Hit, Not Just The Tudors and Betwixt the Sheets.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 18, 2025 • 41min
What Caused the Civil War? | John Brown's Raid
John Brown's raid on Harpers Ferry helped cause the Civil War. His is a magnetic persona that's hard to take your eyes away from. But who were the people who inspired him? Who funded him? Who joined him on the raid? It turns out there's a lot more to the story as Don learns with today's guest Dr Kellie Carter Jackson author of We Refuse: A Forceful History of Black Resistance" and co-host of the "This Day" podcast.Edited by Tim Arstall. Produced by Freddy Chick. Senior Producer is Charlotte Long.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here.All music from Epidemic Sounds.American History Hit is a History Hit podcast.
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Sep 15, 2025 • 38min
The Origins of California
Michael Hiltzik, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of 'Golden State: The Making of California', joins the discussion on California’s fascinating evolution. From its indigenous roots and the influence of Spanish and Mexican governance to the impact of the Gold Rush, Hiltzik uncovers the layers of cultural and political change. He highlights California’s transformation into a tourism hotspot driven by innovation and transportation advancements. Dive into the complexities of water politics, governance, and the Golden State's unique identity!
Sep 11, 2025 • 36min
What Caused the Civil War? | Politics
How did the politicians in Washington D.C. push America towards the one thing they wanted to avoid: all out Civil War? We look at how the violent and frat house culture that existed within D.C. played its part, and at the chronic failure of leadership from those sitting atop of this steaming mess - the Presidents.We're joined by returning guest (from our Franklin Pierce episode) Brian C Neumann, author of 'Bloody Flag of Anarchy: Unionism in South Carolina during the Nullification Crisis' and managing director of the John L. Nau III Center for Civil War History at the University of Virginia.Produced by Freddy Chick. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. Senior Producer was Charlotte LongSign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here.All music from Epidemic Sounds.American History Hit is a History Hit podcast.
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Sep 8, 2025 • 34min
How to Amend the Constitution
Why has it been so long since the US Constitution was amended? The incredible Jill Lepore joins Don to explore how the Constitution was designed for amendment, and how this has been utilised through its history.Jill is a staff writer for the New Yorker, David Woods Kemper '41 Professor of American History at Harvard University and author of multiple books. The most recent is 'We the People: A History of the U.S. Constitution'.Produced by Sophie Gee. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. Senior Producer was Charlotte Long.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here.All music from Epidemic Sounds.American History Hit is a History Hit podcast.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
14 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 58min
What Caused the Civil War? | Slavery
In this discussion, historian Chandra Manning from Georgetown University dives deep into the roots of the Civil War, shedding light on the institution of slavery. She reveals how the brutal economics of slavery fueled national divisions, while also exploring the struggles of free Black communities. Manning highlights the crucial role of religion in shaping contrasting Northern and Southern views on slavery and examines Confederate soldiers' insights into their motivations. This rich exploration uncovers the multifaceted causes that ultimately ignited the conflict.
Sep 1, 2025 • 32min
Who Designed the American Flag?
In this discussion, historian Marc Leepson, author of 'Flag: An American Biography,' uncovers the intriguing backstory of the American flag. He sheds light on the evolution of its design and significant moments that shaped its identity, such as its role in the Civil War and the Spanish-American War. The conversation also debunks the myth surrounding Betsy Ross's involvement and explores the flag's deep emotional connection to patriotism, national pride, and the rituals that surround it in American culture.
14 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 51min
American Traitors: The Rosenbergs
Professor Lori Clune, a historian from Cal State University, Fresno, dives into the gripping tale of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, who were executed for espionage during the Cold War. She discusses the complex ideological motivations behind their actions and the spy network that led to their arrest. The podcast reveals the societal fears of communism at the time and examines the trial's intricacies, including familial betrayals. Clune also reflects on the lasting legacy of their case and how it shaped perceptions of treason and justice in America.
12 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 30min
How To Survive the Revolutionary War
Dr. Sanders Marble, a Senior Historian at the Army Medical Department Center of History & Heritage, shares his expertise on military medicine honed over 20 years. He paints a harrowing picture of the Revolutionary War, where soldiers faced not only physical wounds but rampant diseases like smallpox. Discussing the challenges surgeons faced with limited training and hygiene, he highlights the formation of a dedicated medical branch and the struggles of early medical leaders. It's a fascinating glimpse into the brutal realities of wartime healthcare and the evolution of medical practices.
14 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 45min
American Traitors: Axis Sally
Join Professor Michael Flamm, a scholar of modern American political history, as he unpacks the controversial life of Mildred Gillars, infamously known as Axis Sally. Flamm reveals her transformation from aspiring actress to a key Nazi propagandist amidst World War II. Explore the ethical complexities of her role in wartime propaganda, her legal battle for treason, and the impact of her broadcasts on U.S. soldiers. Flamm also discusses her tumultuous past and the enduring questions surrounding loyalty, citizenship, and the legacy of her actions.
11 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 56min
What If Lincoln Hadn't Been Shot?
Join Aaron Sheehan-Dean, a history professor from Louisiana State University, as he dives into the intriguing scenario of what America could have looked like if Lincoln had survived his assassination. They discuss how his leadership might have shaped Reconstruction differently, from Southern state reintegration to the preservation of civil rights for Black Americans. The conversation flags the stark contrasts between Lincoln's inclusive vision and Andrew Johnson's contentious policies, highlighting the enduring implications of these historical pivots.
