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
7 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 37min
The Crystal Palace
Historian and conservationist Steven Brindle dives into the marvels of the Great Exhibition of 1851, where 6 million Victorians flocked to see jaw-dropping innovations. He discusses the iconic Crystal Palace—its ambitious design by Joseph Paxton, the engineering feats involved, and its significance in demonstrating Britain’s industrial prowess. Brindle also shares amusing anecdotes, like the birds nesting inside the Palace, and reflects on its legacy in shaping modern cultural institutions and global commerce, even after its tragic loss.
Jun 22, 2025 • 44min
Civil War in the Holy Roman Empire
Peter Wilson, a history professor at the University of Oxford and author of 'The Thirty Years War: Europe’s Tragedy', takes us through the catastrophic Thirty Years' War. He explores the brutal devastation of cities like Magdeburg and the war's shattering impact on Europe's political landscape. Hear about key moments like the Defenestration of Prague and the pivotal role of Gustavus Adolphus in rallying Protestant forces. Wilson also discusses the significance of the Peace of Westphalia, which reshaped alliances and marked a turning point in European diplomacy.
19 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 41min
The Mysteries of Easter Island
James Grant-Peterkin, a cultural historian with over 20 years on Easter Island, shares the riveting story of Rapa Nui. He delves into the island's unique geography and the bravery of ancient Polynesian navigators. The spiritual significance of the iconic moai statues is explored, revealing their deep connection to Rapa Nui identity. Grant-Peterkin discusses the island's rise and fall, highlighting societal dynamics and resource challenges. Lastly, he addresses the delicate balance between tourism and cultural preservation on this remote treasure.
13 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 53min
The Battle of Waterloo
Peter Snow, a veteran broadcaster and historian, teams up with his son Dan to delve into the legendary Battle of Waterloo, where Napoleon met his match against the Duke of Wellington. They dissect the clash's strategic brilliance, highlighting key defense tactics at Hougamont and the chaos of cavalry charges. Peter shares intriguing anecdotes from the battlefield, illustrating the intense decisions faced by Napoleon. The discussion emphasizes how the battle reshaped Europe and marks a significant milestone in their decade-long history of storytelling.
52 snips
Jun 15, 2025 • 36min
Iran & Israel: Allies to Enemies
Maziar Bahari, an Iranian-Canadian journalist and filmmaker, dives into the complex history of Iran and Israel's relationship. He unpacks how these nations transitioned from allies to fierce adversaries, highlighting pivotal military actions and shifts in alliances. The discussion sheds light on the Shah's foreign policy and its aftermath, exploring the implications for both countries' geopolitical stances today. Bahari also touches on Iran's connections with groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, emphasizing the intricate web of regional dynamics.
10 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 39min
How Did Humans Take Over the World?
In this engaging discussion, Chris Stringer, a Research Leader in Human Evolution at London's Natural History Museum and a paleoanthropology veteran, explores how Homo sapiens spread across the globe. He delves into the adaptive strategies that allowed early humans to master fire, craft tools, and survive Ice Ages. The conversation also addresses the complex interbreeding between species like Neanderthals and the social dynamics shaping human evolution, unveiling how these factors contributed to our dominance on Earth.
8 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 38min
The Ultimate Mesopotamian Mystery
Joshua Hammer, a freelance journalist and author of 'The Mesopotamian Riddle', shares captivating tales of the 19th-century race to decipher cuneiform, the first written language. He introduces an adventurous trio—a dashing archaeologist, a diplomatic officer, and a reclusive clergyman—who unveiled Mesopotamia's secrets. The podcast also explores the fierce competition between Victorian scholars, reveals Enheduanna's pioneering role as a female writer, and emphasizes the significance of Assyrian mythology in understanding ancient narratives.
18 snips
Jun 8, 2025 • 46min
How the Nazis Escaped Germany
Philippe Sands, a British-French lawyer and author, dives into the dark world of Nazi escapes after World War II. He highlights the notorious 'ratlines'—escape routes facilitated by the Catholic Church that led war criminals to South America. Through the chilling story of SS officer Walter Rauff, Sands reveals how these figures evaded justice and later re-emerged in regimes like Pinochet’s Chile. The conversation also probes the moral complexities of seeking justice for atrocities and the ongoing legacy of these historical connections.
8 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 57min
Julius Caesar
Join Dr. Simon Elliott, a renowned Roman historian, as he delves into the life and legacy of Julius Caesar. They debate whether Caesar truly deserves the title of the greatest Roman, exploring his military genius and complex political maneuvers. Discover his bold campaigns in Gaul, his rivalry with Pompey, and his dramatic relationship with Cleopatra. Elliott also highlights the political tensions of his era and how Caesar’s actions paved the way for the Roman Empire, ultimately reshaping history.
20 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 46min
Disasters in the Age of Discovery
Simon Parker, an associate professor at the University of Oxford and author of 'Wreckers: Disaster in the Age of Discovery,' shares gripping tales from the perilous voyages of the 16th century. He explores the physical and mental toll on sailors battling hurricanes and disease, and recounts disastrous encounters with indigenous peoples. From shipwrecks in the Indian Ocean to the harsh survival strategies of stranded crews, Parker illuminates the extreme risks of exploration, revealing how greed and hubris often led to tragedy.
