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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 7, 2025 • 48min
Italians in America
From Columbus onwards, Italians have been a part of American culture. Don explores this rich history with Professor Anthony Tamburri, Dean of the John D. Calandra Italian American Institute in New York.Produced by Sophie Gee and Freddy Chick. Edited by Tim Arstall. Senior Producer was Charlotte Long.Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign here for up to 50% for 3 months using code AMERICANHISTORY.You can take part in our listener survey here.American History Hit is a History Hit podcast.
13 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 33min
The Battle for the Philippines
Jonathan Horn, a former White House presidential speechwriter and author of 'The Fate of the Generals,' dives into the gripping story of the Philippines during WWII. He discusses the largest American surrender in May 1942 and the harrowing Bataan Death March. Horn highlights Douglas MacArthur's determination to return and the brutal conditions faced by POWs. The conversation also explores the strategic significance of the Philippines, the sacrifices made by American and Filipino soldiers, and the enduring legacy of these events on military history.
9 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 41min
5 Key Weapons of the Civil War
Cecily Zander, an Assistant Professor at Texas Women's University and author of 'The Army Under Fire', joins to discuss the pivotal role of weaponry in the Civil War. She breaks down the deadly effectiveness of muskets and the innovative ironclads that transformed naval warfare. The conversation highlights crucial cavalry tactics, the strategic importance of supply lines, and how these advancements laid the groundwork for modern military technology. Zander also touches on the broader legacy of the war’s innovations in shaping future combat strategies.
18 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 28min
The Roosevelt Brothers' Panda Hunt
Nathalia Holt, historian and author of 'The Beast in the Clouds,' discusses the captivating and perilous 1928 expedition of Teddy Roosevelt's sons, Ted Jr. and Kermit, who sought the mythical giant panda in China. She highlights how their adventurous journey was shaped by their father's legacy and the personal challenges they faced. Key moments include their transformative encounters with local guides in Muli and the ethical shift that led them to embrace wildlife conservation after grappling with the consequences of their quest.
9 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 36min
Revolutionary War: The Swamp Fox's Guerilla War
Historian Patrick O'Kelley, an expert on the Revolutionary War in the Carolinas, reveals the truth behind Francis Marion, the 'Swamp Fox.' He discusses Marion's innovative guerrilla tactics that challenged traditional military strategies. O'Kelley contrasts Marion's legendary status with historical facts and critiques popular portrayals in movies like 'The Patriot.' He delves into the strategic complexity of warfare in the South and how local terrain influenced Marion's successes, showcasing his enduring impact on American history.
4 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 45min
Origins of New York
Andrea Mosterman, a historian who specializes in Dutch early America and slavery, shares intriguing insights about the formation of New Amsterdam in 1624. She delves into the daily lives of the first settlers, trade dynamics, and complex interactions with Indigenous peoples. Mosterman highlights the early enslavement system in the colony, emphasizing its significant role in shaping community identities. The conversation reveals the multifaceted history of New York, illustrating how its diverse foundations continue to influence the city today.
7 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 35min
Revolutionary War: How Good Was George Washington?
In this engaging discussion, Major Jonathan Bratten, a National Guard engineer officer and army historian, challenges the traditional view of George Washington as a flawless military leader. They dissect Washington’s strategic skills, examining both his triumphs and failures during the Revolutionary War. The conversation covers his appointment, early military challenges, and evolving leadership styles. They also question how Washington's legacy impacts our memory of him, especially in light of his significant struggles amidst the chaos of war.
11 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 45min
200 Years Inside Sing Sing Prison
In this engaging discussion, historian Lee Bernstein, a professor at SUNY New Paltz and author of 'America Is the Prison', dives into the intriguing history of Sing Sing Prison. He explores its origins in 1825, highlighting forced labor practices and societal implications of capital punishment. Bernstein discusses the evolution of American incarceration, from early reformative ideals to punitive systems, and examines the legacy of significant reformers like Eliza Farnham. He also addresses modern rehabilitation efforts and the cultural impact of prison narratives.
Jul 10, 2025 • 32min
Revolutionary War: What If the British Won?
Join Major Jonathan Bratten, a skilled engineer officer and historian, alongside Dan Snow, the charismatic star of Dan Snow's History Hit, as they dive into an alternate history where the British won the Revolutionary War. They speculate on the grim fates of American revolutionaries and how life would differ under continued British rule. The conversation explores potential societal changes, from territorial issues to slavery, and examines the philosophical core of American identity amidst ongoing struggles for self-governance.
Jul 7, 2025 • 28min
When Britain Sent Its Convicts to America
Dr. Anna McKay, a historian specializing in the British Empire's prison systems, dives deep into the intriguing history of convict transportation to America. Over 50,000 prisoners were sent across the Atlantic from Jamestown to 1775, playing a surprising role in the colonial economy and labor force. The discussion sheds light on how these convicts were both comparable to indentured servants and subjected to societal scrutiny. McKay also traces individual convict stories, revealing their complex ties to their homelands against the backdrop of the American Revolution.
