

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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

4 snips
Jun 23, 2024 • 27min
John the Baptist
Professor Joan Taylor discusses the enigmatic figure of John the Baptist, his ascetic lifestyle, influence on Christianity, and archaeological findings in the Jordan River region. Unraveling his significance as a forerunner to Jesus Christ and exploring the historical context of his ministry and legacy.

Jun 18, 2024 • 43min
The Other D-Day: The Eastern Front
Veteran broadcaster and historian Jonathan Dimbleby joins to discuss Hitler's failed plans in the East. They explore Operation Bagration's impact on the Eastern Front, leading the Red Army closer to Berlin. Jonathan's book 'Endgame 1944' delves into Stalin's role in winning the war.

Jun 18, 2024 • 1h 12min
Dan's History Heroes: Britain's Greatest Soldier, Part 2
Discover the extraordinary life of Britain's soldier Sir Adrian Carton de Wiart who fought in multiple wars. From surviving the 1939 invasion of Poland to becoming a POW in Italy and eventually Churchill's representative to Chiang Kai-shek in China. A tale of bravery, challenges, and leadership in turbulent times.

Jun 17, 2024 • 47min
Dan's History Heroes: Britain's Greatest Soldier, Part 1
Meet Sir Adrian Carton de Wiart, Britain's legendary soldier who fought in 3 major wars. From his baptism by fire in South Africa to the trenches of the Western Front, his astonishing tale is shared by Dan Snow. Discover his courage, leadership, and resilience in the face of grave injuries and challenges, making him a figure of gallantry and legend.

Jun 15, 2024 • 38min
The Rise and Fall of the Ku Klux Klan
Historian Professor Kristofer Allerfeldt joins Dan Snow to discuss the rise and fall of the Ku Klux Klan, delving into the origins, violent tactics, and historical influences of the Klan. They explore the Klan's operations, mythologization post-Reconstruction, and its revival after The Birth of a Nation. The discussion also covers the Klan's ceremonies, growth, decline, and resurgence in the 1960s, leading to its fragmented state with extremist beliefs.

6 snips
Jun 12, 2024 • 48min
Civil War Rivals: Robert E. Lee vs Ulysses Grant
Join Jonathan D. Bratten as he discusses the fierce rivalry between Ulysses S. Grant and Robert E. Lee during the Civil War. Delve into their contrasting backgrounds, military careers, and strategic differences, culminating in their defining moments on the battlefield. Explore the evolving legacies of these iconic generals and decide for yourself - who was the better general?

5 snips
Jun 11, 2024 • 42min
The Early Years of the British Empire
Historian David Veevers joins Dan to discuss the chaotic early years of the British Empire in the 17th century, filled with exploration, private companies, pirates, and indigenous resistance. They explore how the English moved into new lands, the challenges they faced, and their interactions with the indigenous peoples. The discussion highlights the tumultuous beginnings of British imperialism and the complexities of early colonial encounters.

Jun 10, 2024 • 30min
The Challenger Disaster
British journalist Adam Higginbotham discusses the Challenger Disaster of 1986, exposing flawed decision-making at NASA. They explore the tragedy, whistleblowers, and the book 'Challenger: A True Story of Heroism & Disaster at the Edge of Space'.

Jun 9, 2024 • 51min
Lost on Mount Everest: The Mystery of Mallory and Irvine
World-renowned climber Jake Norton joins to unravel the mystery of Mallory and Irvine's quest on Mount Everest. They discuss the challenges faced, the tragic disappearance, and the discoveries made in 1999. The chapter explores the haunting legacy of the mountain and the enduring fascination with the climbers' fate.

Jun 6, 2024 • 40min
Inside North Korea
Jean Lee, American journalist who lived in North Korea, shares insights on the Kim dynasty, the famine of the 90s, and the challenges of reporting in a closed society. She discusses the mythology of the ruling family, North Korea's historical struggles, and the harsh living conditions outside of Pyongyang. Lee also covers North Korea's cyber capabilities and the risks journalists face in portraying the country accurately.