Dan Snow's History Hit
History Hit
Historian Dan Snow journeys across the globe to tell the stories of history's defining moments. From the Colosseum in Rome to the Great Wall of China, the battlefields of Waterloo to the Tomb of Tutankhamun, join Dan as he explores the how and why of the greatest monuments, battles, heroes, villains and events that have shaped our world.New episodes on Mondays and Thursdays with bonus subscriber only episodes every other Friday.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.
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Episodes
Mentioned books
8 snips
Jan 19, 2026 • 41min
The Top Assassination Attempts on Hitler
Join historian Roger Moorhouse as he dives into the riveting world of assassination attempts on Adolf Hitler. Discover the daring plans of lone-wolf Georg Elser, who crafted a bomb by hand, and the relentless Polish resistance fighting against tyranny. Moorhouse also recounts the dramatic failed attempts by Claus von Stauffenberg and others to eliminate the Führer. Explore the moral complexities behind these plots and the reasons why Allies ultimately hesitated to assassinate Hitler. A fascinating discussion on courage and resistance!
36 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 1h 10min
A History of Iran
Ali Ansari, a historian specializing in modern Iranian history and professor at the University of St Andrews, dives deep into Iran's rich past. He discusses pivotal moments like the Arab conquest, the rise of the Safavids, and the impact of Reza Shah's modernization efforts. Ansari connects historical events to current unrest, emphasizing how Iran's dual legacy of empire and myth shapes national identity. He also explores the long-term effects of Western engagement and advises on understanding Iran's complex political landscape.
9 snips
Jan 12, 2026 • 30min
U.S. Interventions in Latin America and Beyond
Join historian Daniel Immerwahr, author of 'How to Hide an Empire,' as he explores the U.S.'s long history of intervention in Latin America. From the Monroe Doctrine to Cold War tactics, he covers how U.S. presidents justified actions as protection while exerting control through military and economic power. Immerwahr highlights key events like the 1954 Guatemala coup, the 1989 Panama invasion, and the aftermath of U.S.-backed regimes, revealing patterns of influence and instability that continue to affect the region today.
26 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 35min
A history of (American) occupation in Greenland
Historian Robert Rix from the University of Copenhagen, an expert in Greenlandic history, discusses the complex narrative of Greenland's occupation. He delves into the history from Norse settlements under Erik the Red to the modern American military presence. Rix highlights multiple U.S. attempts to acquire Greenland, the impact of WWII, and the strategic significance of the territory for NATO. Their conversation raises questions about Denmark's authority and the evolving quest for Greenlandic self-rule and independence.
27 snips
Jan 5, 2026 • 1h 3min
The Rise, Fall and Rise of the Taliban
Lyse Doucet, a veteran BBC Chief International Correspondent and author, delves into the decades-long trajectory of the Taliban's rise. She reveals how Afghanistan's history has unfolded through the lens of the Intercontinental Hotel, a cultural landmark impacted by shifting power dynamics. Doucet shares gripping accounts from the Soviet invasion, 9/11, and the turbulent periods that followed. She discusses the resurgence of the Taliban and the sobering current reality in Afghanistan, highlighting the critical role of journalism amid human suffering.
36 snips
Jan 1, 2026 • 40min
How Did Ancient Romans become Christians?
Professor Alice Roberts, an expert in archaeology and history, dives deep into the swift rise of Christianity within the Roman Empire. She explores how early Christians organized communities and adapted Roman governance structures. Alice discusses the conversion of elites, the pivotal role of bishops, and how mutual benefits emerged between church and state. The impact of cultural exchange and urban networks also highlights why this faith spread rapidly. Roberts ties in fascinating insights from her book 'Domination', shedding light on a transformative period in history.
Dec 29, 2025 • 29min
What was the Hanseatic League?
Dr. Justyna Wubs-Mrozewicz, an associate professor at the University of Amsterdam, delves into the fascinating world of the Hanseatic League, a medieval trading network that thrived across Northern Europe. She explains how this unique entity functioned without being a formal nation-state, employed innovative conflict management strategies, and established influential merchant alliances. Justyna also highlights the League's lasting impact on modern city cooperation and today’s economic networks. Tune in for an engaging exploration of history's trade pioneers!
7 snips
Dec 25, 2025 • 30min
How Did the British Empire Build the Modern World?
Join journalist and bestselling author Sathnam Sanghera as he explores the immense legacy of the British Empire. Delve into its influence on global commodities like sugar and cotton, and the dynamics of settler colonies in America and Australia. Discover how empire shaped language, time zones, and today’s corporations. Sathnam also examines the darker side of imperialism, including the transatlantic slave trade and its cultural impacts. Gain insights into why understanding this history remains crucial in today's multicultural world.
5 snips
Dec 22, 2025 • 41min
King Herod
Seth Schwartz, a professor of Classical Jewish Civilization at Columbia University, delves into the complex life of King Herod, known for his grand architectural projects and ruthless paranoia. They discuss Herod's rise to power amid Roman turmoil and his political strategy of client kingship. The podcast explores the infamous Massacre of the Innocents, questioning its historical accuracy while reflecting on Herod’s cruelty. They also touch on Herod’s legacy in Jewish and Christian traditions and contrast him with his more favorable grandson, Agrippa.
Dec 18, 2025 • 32min
A History of Christmas Food
Annie Gray, a food historian and author, dives into fascinating historical Christmas food traditions. She elaborates on the unique dishes enjoyed during medieval feasts, like boar's head and elaborate mincemeat pies, revealing their savory origins. The conversation explores the pagan roots of holiday practices, the evolution of turkey as a festive staple, and the communal joys of wassail. Annie also shares tips on reviving lost customs, such as Twelfth Night cake, making it a delightful journey into the culinary past of Christmas.
