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
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.
Aug 14, 2025 • 54min
American Traitors: Benedict Arnold
Is Benedict Arnold the biggest traitor in American History? In this episode, Don is joined by author Stephen Brumwell to examine how Arnold went from hero to villain.How important was he to the Revolutionary cause? Why did he decide to go against it? And do his actions even count as treason?Stephen Brumwell is a writer and independent historian specialising in British-American military affairs of the eighteenth century. He is the author of a number of books, the most recent being ‘Turncoat: Benedict Arnold and the Crisis of American Liberty’.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.
10 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 39min
The End of the Pacific War
Ian W. Toll, acclaimed author of a three-volume history on the Pacific War, dives into the events leading up to Japan's surrender on August 14, 1945. He sheds light on the Japanese perspective of defeat, the dynamics of key battles like Midway and Okinawa, and the controversial atomic bombings. Toll discusses the internal strife within Japan's leadership, the significant role of military rivalries, and how those tensions shaped wartime decisions. His insights provide a fresh understanding of this pivotal moment in history.
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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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.
