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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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
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.
May 6, 2024 • 37min
The Dynasty That Made Medieval France
Author and Professor Justine Firnhaber-Baker discusses the dramatic rule and legacy of the Capetian dynasty in medieval France. Topics include the ascension of Hugh Capet, personal relationships of French kings, roles of Capetian women, and the dynasty's impact on shaping medieval France.
May 5, 2024 • 49min
Why Are We Drawn to Dictators?
Journalist Anne Applebaum and Professor David Runciman discuss the allure of dictators in modern democracies, the challenges faced by youth in democratic systems, and the role of technology in shaping democracy. They reflect on history, discuss the essence of democracy, and explore unconventional methods to challenge the status quo in democratic processes.
May 4, 2024 • 29min
The Atomic Bomb & Civil War Cigars: Greatest 'What Ifs' from History
Brian Klaas, global politics professor, dives into the chaotic nature of history with Dan Snow. They explore 'what if' scenarios like the impact of a rock on Earth, the Civil War cigar orders, and close calls that could have altered global events.
Apr 30, 2024 • 28min
The Battle of Okinawa
Historian Saul David discusses the intense Battle of Okinawa during WWII, highlighting Kamikaze tactics, British Fleet involvement, and the tragic impact on civilians. The podcast delves into the strategic significance of Okinawa, high casualties, and the decision to drop the atomic bomb.
21 snips
Apr 29, 2024 • 30min
The Original Kamikaze: The Mongol Invasions of Japan
Explore the Mongol invasions of Japan in the 13th century, including Kublai Khan's failed attempts, the samurai's valor, and the role of divine winds. Learn about the cultural and religious dynamics of these invasions, and how they inspired the kamikaze pilots in World War Two.
Apr 28, 2024 • 30min
The Kamikaze Hunters
Discover the British Navy's fight against kamikaze attacks in the Pacific during WWII, featuring elite pilots like Chris Cartledge. Explore the harrowing events of a Kamikaze attack on HMS Indefatigable and the bravery of airmen facing aerial assaults. Reflect on the sacrifices and resilience of British pilots in the final days of the war.
6 snips
Apr 27, 2024 • 29min
The Kamikaze Pilots
Dan Snow, a military historian, explores the Kamikaze pilots with guest Christopher Harding, a cultural historian of India and Japan. They discuss the ideological and tactical messages of the kamikaze, questioning if the pilots were zealots or terrified young men. The podcast delves into the impact and legacy of these suicide missions during World War II, shedding light on the emotional struggles and sacrifices of the kamikaze pilots.
