

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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 23, 2024 • 1min
Coming Soon! D-day to Berlin
June 6th marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day and Dan Snow's History Hit is it by bringing you its biggest series yet. From now until May next year, we'll be marking the pivotal moments from D-Day to VE Day. This was the titanic struggle that saw the Allies advance from East and West to crush the Third Reich and hasten the end of the most terrible war in history. Join us as we take you through the Battle of Normandy and the liberation of France, the disaster of Operation Market Garden, the terrible fighting in the Ardennes as well as the gargantuan clashes on the Eastern Front. We'll also be marking the big anniversaries in the Pacific and Southeast Asian theatres as well. You can expect some epic storytelling from the best experts in the field. We're going to be hearing from Nick Hewitt, James Holland and Jonathan Dimbleby amongst many others. And, we'll also hear testimony from those who were there during those climactic final months of The Second World War.This is your definitive guide to World War II from D-Day to Berlin so make sure to follow Dan Snow's History Hit wherever you get your podcasts.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 21, 2024 • 35min
Jane Seymour: Henry VIII’s Third Queen
Dr. Elizabeth Norton discusses Jane Seymour, Henry VIII's third queen, unveiling her agency and royal blood. They explore Jane's assertiveness in politics, her impact on religious institutions, and the tragic consequences of her pregnancy. The podcast delves into debunking myths and highlighting Jane Seymour's complex legacy.

22 snips
May 20, 2024 • 38min
The Opium Wars
Exploring the British Empire's opium trade with China, the resulting conflict in the form of the Opium Wars, British military success, transformation in legal status for foreigners in China, origins of the wars, geopolitical movements in the 19th century, and the looting of the Summer Palaces in China by British and French forces.

33 snips
May 19, 2024 • 50min
The British Empire, China and Opium
Exploring the British Empire's use of opium for health and control in Asia. Delving into the Opium trade crisis in China. Uncovering the complexities of the Opium Wars and their lasting impact on China's relationship with the west.

May 18, 2024 • 35min
Civil War in Feudal Japan: The Sengoku Period
The podcast delves into the brutal Sengoku period in feudal Japan, marked by constant civil war and ruthless warlords. Topics include the shift in political power, key players, samurai loyalty, evolution of warfare, Nobunaga's leadership, the significance of castles, siege warfare, and cultural perspectives on war and religion.

May 14, 2024 • 33min
The Royal Navy's Darkest Night & The Origins of Longitude
Explore the tragic 1707 naval disaster off the Scilly Isles, the heroic actions and devastating consequences, and the advancements in navigation spurred by the catastrophe. Join the journey to uncover the treacherous waters, the rise and fall of Admiral Clousely Shovel, and the exploration of maritime history with legendary sailor Conrad Humphries.

May 13, 2024 • 31min
Stalin, Churchill and Roosevelt: The Impossible Alliance that Won WWII
Listen to bestselling historian Giles Milton discuss the unlikely alliance between Stalin, Churchill, and Roosevelt during WWII. Explore the pivotal role of diplomats in negotiating with Stalin and keeping the Allied victory in sight. Learn about the complex relationships and key meetings that shaped the outcome of the war.

May 12, 2024 • 51min
Twelve Caesars with Mary Beard
Join Dan Snow and legendary classicist Mary Beard as they dive into the history of the first twelve Caesars, exploring how these autocratic rulers have been portrayed throughout history and the lasting legacy they have left behind. The podcast delves into the power and influence of ancient Roman emperors, the fascination with their dark and mysterious stories, and their enduring impact on modern art and culture.

May 11, 2024 • 40min
Marshal Pétain: Hero or Traitor?
Author Julian Jackson discusses Marshal Pétain's transformation from war hero to traitor, the complexities of his collaboration with Nazi Germany, the divisive legacy of his trial, and the resurgence of extreme right politics in France.

14 snips
May 7, 2024 • 30min
Merlin, The Occult and British Politics
Dr. Francis Young discusses the real Merlin, John Dee as Elizabeth I's occultist advisor, linking magical advisors to British politics. They cover Dee's influence on creating the British Empire, mystical beliefs, and the use of magic in shaping historical decisions. The conversation explores forbidden knowledge, occult practices, and parallels between current and historical political climates.