

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 3, 2024 • 51min
3. Thomas Cochrane: From Disgrace to Freedom Fighter
Famous naval officer Thomas Cochrane's rise to fame, fraud charges, and prison escape set the stage for his adventures in South America. He helps Chile and Brazil gain independence, but not without pillaging along the way. Cochrane's later years are marked by his reputation as a liability to the Admiralty.

Jan 2, 2024 • 30min
The Romanovs
Explore the impact and fall of the Romanov dynasty in Russia, including the Russian Revolution. Learn about the rise of the Romanovs, their power and influence, and the challenges they faced in governing a vast country. Discover the personal connection of the guest to the Romanov family.

Jan 1, 2024 • 39min
Fall of the Aztec Empire
Learn about the fall of the Aztec Empire and how Hernán Cortés captured it, challenging commonly held views on Spanish superiority. Explore the Spanish scouting efforts, Cortés' rise to power, and the manipulation and alliance that led to the downfall of the Aztec Empire. Discover the role of guns in the conquest and the siege, destruction, and rebuilding of the Aztec Empire.

Dec 27, 2023 • 40min
England & Portugal: The Oldest Alliance in the World
Explore the medieval roots of the oldest alliance in the world between England and Portugal. Discover the historical significance of this alliance and its impact politically, culturally, and commercially. Learn about the motivations behind the treaty, the importance of protecting sea routes, and the enduring friendship between the two nations.

10 snips
Dec 27, 2023 • 46min
Bonnie Prince Charlie
Explore the rebellion led by Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745 as he attempted to overthrow the British crown. Learn about the rise of Bonnie Prince Charlie, the challenges faced by the Jacobite movement, and the first major battle of the Jacobites. Discover the brutal aftermath of the Battle of Culloden and the global impact of the Jacobite rebellion. Dive into the significance of the Seven Years War in shaping the modern world.

Dec 23, 2023 • 29min
Pythagoras' Utopia
Kristen Ghodsee, an ethnographer and author of Everyday Utopia, joins Dan to discuss Pythagoras' utopia and other attempts at creating paradise throughout history, including gender equality and communal property. They also explore the dualist belief system of the Bogomiles, its influence on the Albigensian Crusade, and the potential for reorganizing life on other planets based on historical experiments.

Dec 20, 2023 • 40min
The Middle Ages in 5 Facts
Uncover intriguing Medieval topics such as King Arthur's grave and the origin of humble pie. Explore the manipulation of power and propaganda during the Middle Ages. Discover ruthless royal siblings and the catastrophic year of 536. Reflect on the concept of humanity and societal systems. Dive into the fascinating world of medieval monsters. Get a glimpse of other fascinating topics and book releases.

6 snips
Dec 19, 2023 • 25min
Saint Nicholas
Explore the history and legends of St. Nicholas, including his acts of kindness towards the poor and sick. Learn about festive traditions and stories associated with St. Nick from various regions. Discover the origins and legends of Santa Claus, and how St. Nicholas has been co-opted throughout history. The hosts wrap up with their plans for the holidays and share discount codes and special offers.

Dec 18, 2023 • 43min
Fighting Hitler's U-Boats
Explore the harrowing stories of ship sinkings during World War II and the pivotal role of Frederick John Walker in countering the German U-boat threat. Learn about Hitler's decision to attack the Gibraltar Convoys and the preparations and challenges faced by an Allied convoy. Delve into the intense battle and tactics employed by Captain Walker to hunt U-boats as a pack. Plus, get a discount code for 'The Convoy, HD-76' book.

6 snips
Dec 14, 2023 • 56min
The Boston Tea Party
Learn about the Boston Tea Party where American patriots protested British taxation by dumping 92,000 pounds of tea into the ocean, leading to the explosive American revolution. Discover the discontent with British rule, the background of the Seven Years' War, the East India Company's role in India, and the transformation of the company. Dive into the Tea Act and its significance, and explore the beginnings of the American Revolution and the promotion of history at TV.