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.
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Episodes
Mentioned books
9 snips
Nov 17, 2025 • 42min
What if the Texas Republic survived?
Historian Sam W. Haynes, a professor at the University of Texas at Arlington, explores a fascinating what-if: what if the Republic of Texas had remained independent instead of joining the U.S.? He delves into the origins of Texas, the motivations behind rebellion against Mexico, and the turbulent aftermath involving treaties and territorial disputes. Sam also speculates on the cultural and economic impacts of an independent Texas, including its potential alignment during the Civil War, shaping both regional identity and U.S. history.
Nov 13, 2025 • 38min
The Hurricane Betsy Conspiracy: New Orleans
In this discussion, historian Andy Horowitz delves into the aftermath of Hurricane Betsy and its impact on New Orleans, particularly the controversial theory that officials bombed levees to protect the city. Horowitz examines the city's vulnerability due to its geography, the erosion of wetlands, and how urban development contributed to increased flood risks. He also highlights the disproportionate effects on the Lower Ninth Ward and the legacy of the disaster in shaping flood policies, revealing the systemic failures that still challenge the city today.
11 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 38min
The Supreme Court’s WORST Ever Case: Dred Scott v Sandford
In this enlightening discussion, historian Kate Masur, an expert on civil rights and antebellum America, delves into the notorious Dred Scott v Sandford case. She explores Dred Scott's background and the motivations behind his freedom suit after living in free territories. Masur discusses Chief Justice Roger Taney's ruling, the contentious political climate of the time, and the case's profound implications for citizenship and slavery. She connects Dred Scott's legacy to modern debates on birthright citizenship, making for a captivating and timely conversation.
9 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 47min
Was Lee Harvey Oswald a Lone Gunman?
Join investigative journalist Jefferson Morley, a former Washington Post writer and JFK expert, as he dives into the intricate conspiracy surrounding JFK's assassination. They question the Warren Commission's conclusions, explore forensic doubts about Oswald’s role, and reveal extensive CIA surveillance of him. Morley discusses why Oswald was targeted, public skepticism about the Warren Report, and the implications of newly uncovered documents. He even touches on the potential involvement of anti-Castro operatives and the Mafia, making it a compelling inquiry into a historical mystery.
Nov 3, 2025 • 44min
Bleeding Kansas: Start of the Civil War?
Dr. Kristen Epps, an Associate Professor at Kansas State University and expert on slavery and the Civil War, delves into the tumultuous period of Bleeding Kansas. She discusses the motivations behind settlers flooding into Kansas, the formation of rival governments, and the infamous roles of John Brown and border ruffians. Epps explores how events like the sack of Lawrence foreshadowed the national violence of the Civil War, alongside the ongoing legacy of this conflict in Kansas today.
Oct 30, 2025 • 37min
American Origins of Halloween
Dr. Kelly Fitzgerald, Head of the School of Irish, Celtic Studies and Folklore at University College Dublin, dives into Halloween's fascinating origins. She explains how the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain transformed as it traveled to America. Key topics include the community aspects of harvest gatherings, the intertwining of autumn and the supernatural, and how Christian practices reshaped these pagan traditions. Dr. Fitzgerald also explores the darker imagery of Halloween influenced by Victorian literature and the commercialization of costumes and candy.
Oct 27, 2025 • 44min
Was the American Revolution a World War?
Join historian Richard Bell from the University of Maryland as he unpacks the global dimensions of the American Revolution. He discusses what defines a 'World War,' highlighting the roles of France, Spain, and the Netherlands, as well as the involvement of diverse groups including indigenous peoples and black refugees. Richard explores France's strategic entry into the conflict, Spain's covert support, and how the Caribbean served as a crucial theater. He reveals the long-term global impacts, reshaping empires and trade networks in ways that still resonate today.
Oct 23, 2025 • 51min
What If George Washington Became King?
Michael Hattem, historian and author, dives into a fascinating counterfactual: What if George Washington had become king? He explores Washington's immense popularity post-war and the turbulent reality of his presidency. Hattem discusses the reasons behind the failure of the Articles of Confederation and Washington's decision to step down, emphasizing his legacy of avoiding monarchy. The conversation touches on the potential chaos of succession and how America might have looked under a royal system, all while reinforcing the democratic values Washington upheld.
Oct 20, 2025 • 28min
What if the Cuban Missile Crisis Sparked WW3?
Renata Keller, an associate professor specializing in Latin American-U.S. relations, dives deep into the Cuban Missile Crisis. She highlights how it was more than a U.S.-Soviet standoff, exploring the profound impacts on South America. Listeners learn about regional diplomatic responses, public protests, and the historical role of organizations like the OAS. Renata reveals the dire consequences had nuclear war ensued, shaping a new security landscape that led to the formation of a nuclear-free zone in Latin America. A captivating look at a critical moment in history!
Oct 16, 2025 • 51min
What If There Were No CIA?
Jeffrey Rogg, a Senior Research Fellow at the Global and National Security Institute and author of The Spy and the State, explores the intriguing thought of a world without the CIA. He discusses its origins following WWII and how its absence might have shaped global events like the coups in Guatemala and Iran. Rogg delves into the CIA's covert actions, the ethical dilemmas of programs like MKUltra, and how its secrecy has influenced public conspiracy theories. He warns that covert operations can lead to long-term instability and blowback.
