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.
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Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 5, 2024 • 47min
Hellfire Club: Scandal & Satanism in Georgian England
Maddy, a storyteller with a flair for scandal, dives into the wild history of the Hellfire Club, notorious for its secretive and debauched gatherings. Alongside Anthony, they unravel tales of 18th-century elites engaging in orgies and sinister rituals. The conversation sheds light on the club's impact on societal views of masculinity and moral decadence. Listeners will be enthralled by anecdotes of chaotic initiations, class tensions, and the eerie paranormal legacy of the Hellfire Caves.
Aug 4, 2024 • 53min
The Battle of Hastings
On a fateful day in 1066, the clash of William of Normandy and King Harold Godwinson redefined English history. Discover the political chaos leading to this monumental battle and the rivalries that fueled the conflict. Explore Harold's overconfidence against Viking and Norman forces and the unexpected invasion by Harald Hardrada. Delve into the passions, superstitions, and strategies that dictated the day’s outcome, revealing the stark transformations shaping Anglo-Saxon England amidst violence and power struggles.
Jul 31, 2024 • 37min
The Warsaw Uprising
Clare Mulley, historian, author, and broadcaster, dives into the dramatic narrative of the Warsaw Uprising of 1944. She highlights the relentless spirit of the Polish resistance and the brutal realities they faced against German forces. The gripping story of Elzbieta Zawacka, known as Agent Zo, showcases her transformation into a military leader and her vital role in the uprising. Mulley also discusses the harrowing effects of the occupation and the significant contributions of women in the resistance, illuminating a poignant chapter in history.
Jul 30, 2024 • 60min
The Boy Who Hid in the Woods: How I Survived the Holocaust
Maxwell Smart, a Holocaust survivor who bravely lived alone in the woods during the Nazi occupation, shares his incredible story alongside filmmaker Rebecca Snow, known for adapting his memoir into a feature film. They discuss the emotional challenges of surviving in solitude, the bond between those who helped others, and the profound resilience needed to face such horrors. Maxwell's narrative reveals fleeting moments of hope amid despair, shedding light on the courage required to endure and the sacrifices made during this dark chapter in history.
Jul 29, 2024 • 38min
A History of Cheating at the Olympics
James Harkin and Anna Ptaszynski, authors and members of the QI Elves, dive into the riveting world of cheating in sports as the 2024 Olympics approach. They explore audacious stories, like the man who jumped into a car during the 1904 marathon and twins swapping places at the Los Angeles long jump. Delving into historical contexts, they discuss motivations behind cheating, the emotional complexities involved, and how pervasive this phenomenon has been throughout sports history, shedding light on our fascination with fame and victory.
Jul 28, 2024 • 26min
Harris vs Trump: How We Got Here
Ben Rhodes, former Deputy National Security Advisor for Obama and host of Pod Save the World, discusses the shifting dynamics of the U.S. political landscape with Dan. They explore the historical evolution of the Democratic and Republican parties and the allure of strongman politics. With Kamala Harris emerging as the likely nominee, they delve into modern campaigning's reliance on social media. Rhodes also highlights the potential global implications of a Trump victory, including risks of increased international aggression and instability.
Jul 23, 2024 • 21min
The Voyage That Changed the Way We Eat
Discover the groundbreaking voyage of SS Dunedin in 1882 that revolutionized food transportation using Bell-Coleman refrigeration technology. Learn about the challenges faced at sea and the impact on global trade and technology. Explore the history of the Dunedin ship and Captain John Whitson's bravery in ensuring the safe delivery of cargo.
Jul 22, 2024 • 32min
Bidens Out: A History of What Could Happen Next
Professor Gary Gerstle from the University of Cambridge discusses the historical context of presidential candidates stepping aside. The episode delves into the unique roles of US Presidents and British Prime Ministers, the contrast in health disclosures of past presidents, and the evolution of political conventions in the United States. Insights are shared on the intriguing delegate system, convention battles, and the turbulent events of 1968 in American politics.
Jul 21, 2024 • 40min
Operation Valkyrie: The Attempted Assassination of Hitler
Historian and journalist Nigel Jones discusses the various assassination attempts on Hitler, focusing on the 20th of July Plot. The podcast explores failed attempts, the Valkyrie conspiracy, and the brutal retaliation by the Nazis. It sheds light on the impact of the assassination attempt on Hitler's physical and psychological state.
Jul 17, 2024 • 34min
The Royal Marines
Former Royal Marine, Brigadier Chris Haw MC, discusses the 360-year legacy of the Royal Marines, their pivotal roles in historical battles worldwide, including the American Revolution and the Crimean War. The episode delves into their strategic deployments, the evolution of their specialized skills, and the importance of adapting while honoring traditions.
