Dan Snow's History Hit
History Hit
Historian Dan Snow investigates the 'how' and 'why' of history's defining moments.From the Colosseum of Ancient Rome and the battlefields of Waterloo to the tomb of Tutankhamun, Dan journeys across the globe to share the greatest stories from the past that help us understand the present.New episodes on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.You can get in touch with us at ds.hh@historyhit.comA podcast by History Hit, the world's best history channel and creators of award-winning podcasts The Ancients, Gone Medieval, 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
Oct 9, 2025 • 42min
Medieval Sex
Dr. Eleanor Janega, a medieval historian and author, dives into the fascinating world of medieval sexuality with wit and insight. She debunks myths like the chastity belt and explores sexual agency among widows. The discussion spans from erotic manuscript art to the sexual liberation found during pilgrimages. Janega also highlights the roles of gender-variant individuals and the risks of childbirth, revealing a surprisingly open-minded medieval sexual culture. Throughout, she tackles class differences in sexual practices and societal norms with humor and expertise.
Oct 7, 2025 • 32min
Alexandria
Join Islam Issa, Professor of English and author of 'Alexandria: The City that Changed the World', as he explores the fascinating history of Alexandria. Discover how Alexander the Great's vision birthed a multicultural metropolis and the iconic Great Library. Islam delves into the architectural marvels like the Pharos lighthouse and discusses the city's role as a sanctuary for scholars including Hypatia and Euclid. He also reflects on Alexandria's enduring legacy, from its strategic significance to its unique customs that continue to thrive today.
Oct 5, 2025 • 58min
The Spanish Civil War
Helen Graham, a Professor of Modern European History and expert on the Spanish Civil War, dives into the complex origins of Spain's 1936 civil war. She discusses the impact of previous dictatorships and how World War I reshaped Spain’s politics and society. The conversation reveals how international intervention transformed a coup attempt into a brutal conflict, the significance of the Republican defense of Madrid, and the legacy of Franco’s regime. Graham also highlights the war's role as a precursor to World War II, showcasing its profound consequences on European history.
Oct 2, 2025 • 36min
The Battle of Agincourt
Dive into the thrilling tale of the Battle of Agincourt, where Henry V's outnumbered English army defied the odds against the French. Explore the strategic blunders and chaos that led to a dramatic English victory. Discover how the muddy terrain and the prowess of longbowmen shaped the battle, along with the fallout of casualties on both sides. Learn about the cultural impact and myth-making surrounding Agincourt, from Shakespeare's fiction to its role in British national identity.
Sep 30, 2025 • 43min
Magna Carta
Dr. Michael Livingston, a Medieval historian, delves into the tumultuous backdrop of Magna Carta's creation in 1215. He explores King John's disastrous reign, including his loss of French territories and financial strains that led to baronial rebellion. The intense negotiations at Runnymede and the radical clauses of the charter are unveiled, illustrating its transformative impact on the balance of power. Lastly, the podcast reveals how the fragility of this agreement sparked civil war, showcasing its enduring significance in shaping English law.
6 snips
Sep 28, 2025 • 35min
The First Trains
In this engaging discussion, historian Steven Brindle dives into the legacy of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, celebrating its 200th anniversary. He elaborates on George Stephenson's journey from collier to engineer, unveiling the intricacies behind the revolutionary Locomotion No.1. The conversation explores the technological challenges of early railways and their profound impact on Britain's industrial landscape. Brindle also reveals how this innovation reshaped social dynamics, promoted urban growth, and laid the groundwork for modern transport.
5 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 57min
The Battle of Hastings
The podcast delves into the chaos of 1066, a year marked by succession crises and violence. It discusses King Edward the Confessor’s death and how competing claims led to turmoil. Learn about William of Normandy’s strategic invasion and the backing he received. The narrative highlights Harold Godwinson’s military preparations and his swift response to northern threats. The gripping battle tactics used at Hastings reveal how feigned retreats turned the tide, leading to Harold's fall and William's rise to the English throne.
11 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 47min
The Mongol Invasion of Europe
Marie Favereau, a historian of the Mongol Empire, captivates listeners with her insights on the 13th-century invasions into Europe. She discusses the unique nomadic lifestyle, highlighting their tactical advantages and innovative statecraft under Genghis Khan. Favereau explains the swift movements of Mongol armies, their adaptation to siege warfare, and impactful encounters with the Rus. She further reveals how these incursions reshaped European knowledge and trade, marking a significant historical turning point.
36 snips
Sep 21, 2025 • 35min
Did the Trojan War Really Happen?
Join Eric H. Cline, a professor of ancient history and archaeology, as he explores the true origins of the Trojan War. He delves into the evidence of ancient poetry and archaeology, revealing insights about Bronze Age warfare and the significance of the Mycenaean world. Cline discusses the discovery of Troy and its layers of destruction, supported by intriguing Hittite records. Finally, he examines how Homer's epics shaped the cultural memory of the war, leaving us to ponder whether this legendary conflict was based in reality or pure myth.
16 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 1h 2min
Anne Boleyn: Myths vs Reality
Estelle Paranque, an Associate Professor of History at Northeastern University London and author of 'Thorns, Lust and Glory: The Betrayal of Anne Boleyn', delves into the enigmatic life of Anne Boleyn. She reveals details about Anne's early years in France, exploring her education and experiences at court. Estelle debunks myths surrounding Anne's character, highlighting her ambition and staunch refusal to be merely a mistress to Henry VIII. The discussion also uncovers the complexities of her rise to power and the political machinations that ultimately led to her tragic downfall.
