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
Jan 25, 2024 • 50min
The Vandals
Professor Andy Merrills, an expert on the Vandals and their impact on the Roman Empire, joins the podcast to explore the truth behind the violent reputation of the Vandals. They discuss the Vandals' migration across Europe, their conquest of Carthage, and the archaeological evidence that sheds light on their true nature. The episode also delves into the rise, fall, and challenges faced by the Vandal kingdom, as well as the disappearance of the Vandals and the origins of the term 'Vandalism'.
Jan 24, 2024 • 43min
One Life: The 'British Schindler' Nicky Winton & The Kindertransport
Nicky Winton, the 'British Schindler', saved 669 Jewish children during World War Two. This episode features interviews with Helena Bonham Carter and survivors of the Kindertransport. It also explores Hitler's will, dangerous times in Nazi Germany, and the importance of individual heroism.
Jan 23, 2024 • 30min
The Taj Mahal
Mehreen Chida-Razvi, an art historian, discusses how the Taj Mahal was constructed with grief and love in mind. The podcast explores the historical significance and controversies surrounding the iconic monument, including efforts to preserve its authenticity and its representation in present-day India.
4 snips
Jan 22, 2024 • 37min
The Life and Death of Vladimir Lenin
Victor Sebestyen, journalist and historian, discusses the life and impact of Vladimir Lenin. They explore topics such as Lenin's early life and radicalization, his journey to Russia aboard a sealed train, his political strength and simple messaging, and the complexity of the Bolshevik revolution. They also discuss the enduring impact of Lenin and the Russian revolution on the modern world.
Jan 17, 2024 • 43min
What if Hitler Had Invaded Britain?
An exploration of Britain's preparations for a Nazi invasion during World War II, including secret training programs, resistance tactics, and the potential outcomes. The podcast highlights Hitler's failed plan to invade Britain, the agility and ingenuity of British planners, and the secret resistance efforts in occupied Britain.
Jan 17, 2024 • 35min
The Battle of Little Bighorn
Explore the Battle of Little Big Horn, where General Custer's US army faced a devastating defeat against the Lakota Sioux and Cheyenne tribes. Learn about broken treaties, resistance against settlers, indigenous communities, American army tactics, and the ongoing struggle of Native Americans for justice and land rights.
Jan 15, 2024 • 47min
Mike Sadler: The Last SAS Soldier
Mike Sadler, the last of the original SAS men, is remembered as a master desert navigator. He shares his experience as a navigator in World War II and his harrowing escape from capture. The podcast also covers his surrender to the Americans, journey across the desert, and volunteering for an Antarctic expedition.
Jan 11, 2024 • 30min
Japan's Tokugawa Shogunate
Dan Snow is joined by Christopher Harding, a cultural historian of India and Japan, to discuss the Tokugawa Shogunate in Japan. They talk about the restoration of order, the rise of the samurai, the introduction of firearms, the three unifiers of Japan, trade and western influence, and the benefits of living in peaceful times.
Jan 10, 2024 • 26min
The Plague of Athens
Explore the devastating Plague of Athens during the Peloponnesian War. Learn about the symptoms, diseases, and living conditions, as well as the political consequences and religiosity of Athenians. Analyze the successes and failures of Athens in the war, including their capture of Spartans and subsequent downfall.
Jan 4, 2024 • 38min
The WW2 Witch Trial of Hellish Nell
Jess Marlton, manager of Bodmin Jail, discusses the fascinating story of Helen Duncan, the last woman in England to be tried as a witch. They delve into Duncan's showmanship as a medium, the analysis of her ectoplasm, and the government's motives. The podcast explores the rise of mediumship in the 1920s and the role of the industrial revolution. It also uncovers the mysterious WW2 witch trial involving Duncan and her ability to swallow and regurgitate cheesecloth. The trial itself is discussed, including the embarrassment of trying someone for witchcraft in the 20th century. The aftermath of Duncan's trial and the ongoing debate about her practice are also explored.
