Dan Snow's History Hit

Clare Jackson, an Honorary Professor at the University of Cambridge and author of 'Devil Land', dives deep into the fascinating intricacies of the Glorious Revolution. She unravels the political chaos and religious tensions that marked 17th-century England, exploring James II’s controversial reign and his ultimate downfall. The discussion highlights the lesser-known betrayals around James and the eventual rise of William and Mary as joint monarchs. Clare also reflects on the revolution’s significant legacy for Britain’s constitutional monarchy and its global influence.

Martyn Rady, Professor Emeritus of Central European History and author of 'The Middle Kingdoms', dives into the dramatic Siege of Vienna in 1683. He reveals how a vast Ottoman army threatened to engulf the city before a pivotal cavalry charge changed the course of history. The discussion touches on the geopolitical stakes, the rise of Islamic zealotry, and the cultural impacts that resonated throughout Europe. Rady also uncovers fun myths about the origins of coffee and croissants linked to this legendary clash.

Jolene Babyak, a historian of Alcatraz and author of 'Breaking The Rock', shares her unique perspective on the notorious prison where she once lived. She discusses the infamous 1962 escape attempt by Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers, detailing their elaborate planning and daring execution. Babyak also reveals the contrasting childhood experiences of families on the island, living alongside notorious criminals like Al Capone. The conversation dives into the prison's legacy, its maximum-security reputation, and the lasting allure of Alcatraz.

Lucy Noakes, a Professor at the University of Essex and author of 'The People's Victory', shares insights on VE Day and its diverse emotional landscape in Britain. She highlights jubilant street parties and Churchill's iconic speech, juxtaposed with feelings of reticence among some. The conversation also dives into the post-war challenges, including rationing and housing shortages, as well as the public's desire for change that led to an electoral shift towards the Labour Party. It's a rich exploration of both celebration and the stark realities of transitioning to peace.

Dr. Natalie Zacek, a historian and lecturer in American Studies at the University of Manchester, joins to dissect Andrew Jackson's contentious legacy. They explore his journey from humble beginnings to a transformative presidency, highlighting his populist appeal and defiance against political elites. Zacek discusses Jackson's controversial policies, especially his treatment of Native Americans, and how these actions have marked him as both a hero and a villain in American history. The conversation reveals Jackson's lasting impact on the presidency and American politics.

Max Likin, a history lecturer and author of '1945: A World at the End of War,' discusses the chaotic aftermath of World War II and the transformative impact of the Nuremberg Trials. He delves into the harrowing conditions faced by both German civilians and displaced individuals. Likin highlights the significance of visual evidence in war crimes trials, which documented atrocities and influenced historical narratives. The conversation also touches on the challenges of rebuilding in post-war Germany and the moral complexities surrounding justice for wartime actions.

Frank McDonough, a historian specializing in the Third Reich and author of The Hitler Years series, takes us into the chilling last days of Adolf Hitler. He reveals how Hitler, isolated in his Berlin bunker, faced a crippling defeat with a desire to be a martyr. The podcast examines the macabre last birthday celebration, Hitler's marriage to Eva Braun, and the tragic end of the Goebbels family. McDonough also tackles the complex legacy of Hitler, urging listeners to consider the dangers of historical misinterpretation and the neo-Nazi ideologies that persist today.

It started with an inconsequential piece of military intelligence, scrawled on a piece of paper and left in a waste paper basket. But over the next decade, the infamous Dreyfus affair would mutate into a scandal that shook nineteenth-century France and stunned the world.Ruth Harris is a Professor of History at the University of Oxford and author of 'The Man on Devil's Island'. She joins us to explain what a Jewish artillery officer's wrongful conviction tells us about the deep divisions within French society, and explains its long-lasting implications for modern nationalism and even the Zionist movement.Produced by James Hickmann and edited by Dougal Patmore.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.We'd love to hear your feedback - you can take part in our podcast survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on.You can also email the podcast directly at ds.hh@historyhit.com.

Thomas Harding, a journalist and author of 'The Einstein Vendetta,' dives into the harrowing true story of Robert Einstein, cousin of Albert Einstein, whose family faced a brutal war crime in 1944 Italy. He shares chilling details of the family's ordeal as they were hunted by German soldiers and discusses the complexities of identity and survival during the Holocaust. Harding also reflects on the long quest for justice against war crimes, revealing how historical narratives intersect with personal tragedies in a remarkable tale of resilience.

Popes have shaped the history of the world. The Catholic Church has had a Pope for two thousand years, the first- tradition dictates- was St Peter, the fisherman turned disciple of Jesus. Pope 'Leo the Great' stared down Atilla the Hun at the gates of Rome while Pope Innocent III made it his mission to convert the Anglo-Saxons and spread Christianity across Europe.In this episode, Dan is joined by Jessica Wärnberg, author of City of Echoes: A New History of Rome, Its Popes and People, to examine the origins of the Pope's role, how the Pope became such a powerful and influential figure outside of the Catholic Church, and which popes, for better or worse, have shaped the course of history.This episode was first released in August 2023Produced by James Hickmann & edited by Dougal PatmoreSign 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.We'd love to hear your feedback - you can take part in our podcast survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on.You can also email the podcast directly at ds.hh@historyhit.com.