

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

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.

14 snips
Jun 6, 2024 • 32min
Pegasus Bridge: The First Assault of D-Day
Explore the heroic glider landing of British troops on D-Day to secure vital bridges in Normandy, the meticulous planning and risks of the D-Day landings, the swift capture of Pegasus Bridge, heroes and sacrifices on D-Day, and the crucial turning point at Pegasus Bridge during the assault.

Jun 6, 2024 • 29min
D-Day: The Deception that Made it Possible
Historian Taylor Dow discusses the D-Day deception, focusing on General George S. Patton's fake army speech. They explore Operation Fortitude's tactics, including fake radio messages and the Scottish deception campaign. The episode highlights the success of Allied deception strategies before D-Day and Major John Howard's daring airborne mission on Pegasus Bridge.

45 snips
Jun 6, 2024 • 1h 46min
D-Day: The Land Invasion
Military historian Stephen Fischer joins Dan to discuss the dramatic first hours of D-Day, focusing on the assaults on Normandy Beaches. They detail the intense combat experiences faced by troops and the pivotal moments that defined this historic invasion.

Jun 6, 2024 • 27min
D-Day: The Air Invasion
Historian James Daly joins Dan Snow to discuss the crucial role of aircraft in the D-Day operation. They explore strategic bombing, reconnaissance missions, and the diverse array of aircraft involved. Detailed discussions on air invasion tactics, key locations in the invasion, and the pivotal role of air power in the success of D-Day.

12 snips
Jun 6, 2024 • 51min
D-Day: The Sea Invasion
Exploring the massive naval operations of D-Day with 7,000 ships and 195,000 sailors. Allied sailors were crucial for intelligence gathering, naval bombardment, and sinking German U-boats. Learn about the important role of naval battles, defensive strategies, and Mulberry harbors during the invasion.

Jun 4, 2024 • 26min
Las Vegas & Atomic Tourism
Author Lucy Jane Santos discusses the history of uranium and its impact on Las Vegas. Topics include atomic bomb testing, the development of casinos, atomic tourism, and the multifaceted history of uranium.