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
18 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 45min
5 Reasons the Allies Won the War
In this engaging discussion, historian James Holland, a renowned expert on World War II and co-host of 'We Have Ways of Making You Talk', delves into five pivotal reasons for the Allies' triumph. He highlights the disastrous military strategies and leadership blunders of the Axis, as well as the crucial role of naval power. Key moments like the Battle of the Atlantic showcase how effective collaboration among the Allies overshadowed disarray among their enemies. Holland also discusses technological innovations that fueled the war effort, revealing intriguing insights into wartime decision-making.
12 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 44min
Emperor Titus
Join historian Marc Hyden as he uncovers the fascinating yet often overlooked life of Emperor Titus. Discover how his brief reign, marked by the bloody conquest of Jerusalem and the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, left an indelible mark on Roman history. Hyden reveals intriguing tales of dynastic power, including a quirky urine tax and the building of the Colosseum. The discussion also dives into the mysterious circumstances surrounding Titus's death and his complex legacy as a ruler balancing mercy with potential tyranny.
20 snips
Jul 27, 2025 • 44min
Churchill vs Attlee: The Election That Changed Britain
David Runciman, Professor of Politics at Cambridge and host of 'Past Present Future', discusses the surprising 1945 election where Churchill was defeated by Attlee. They explore the public's disillusionment after the war and how Labour's focus on housing and social reform resonated with voters. The conversation highlights the establishment of significant policies like the NHS and the clash between state control and personal freedom in shaping modern Britain. Runciman unpacks the election's historical significance and its lasting impact on the political landscape.
Jul 24, 2025 • 36min
Is James I an Underrated King?
Joined by Anna Whitelock, historian and author, the discussion centers on the reign of King James I, questioning whether his legacy is misunderstood. They explore his skillful political maneuvering, from managing religious conflict to promoting the King James Bible. The conversation highlights his diplomatic successes in unifying England and Scotland, as well as his focus on trade over war, contrasting sharply with his son Charles I. Whitelock offers a fresh perspective on James as a pivotal figure in British history, arguing for a more favorable reassessment.
Jul 22, 2025 • 41min
War of the Worlds: Orson Welles' Alien Invasion Hoax
Join A. Brad Schwartz, a writer and historian known for his book on Orson Welles, as he delves into the 1938 War of the Worlds broadcast. He uncovers the reality behind the panic, revealing that only a small fraction of listeners were truly alarmed by the staged alien invasion. Schwartz discusses the powerful role of media in shaping public perception and fear, and how the broadcast remains a watershed moment in media history. Expect insights on the intertwining of fiction and societal anxieties, and a reflection on today's misinformation landscape.
Jul 20, 2025 • 32min
Pirates: The Pirate Hunts
Sophie Nibbs, curator of the Pirates exhibition at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, joins the discussion to delve into the dramatic life of Bartholomew Roberts, one of the most infamous pirates of the Golden Age. They explore how piracy shifted from a feared occupation to a pursuit marked by violent ends, including Roberts' death and the mass execution of his crew. The conversation also touches on the evolution of modern piracy, showcasing the ongoing allure of these maritime rogues and their enduring impact on culture.
11 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 51min
How did the Colonies win the American War of Independence?
Join Major Jonathan Bratten, a US Army historian, and Don Wildman, host of the American History Hit podcast, as they discuss the American War of Independence. They delve into the pivotal surrender at Yorktown, revealing its significance. The conversation highlights the Declaration of Independence's role in unifying the colonies. The Battle of Saratoga emerges as a critical turning point, showcasing the impact of French naval support. Through strategic alliances, the shifting fortunes between the British and American forces redefined global dynamics.
16 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 45min
Christopher Wren
Stephen Brindle, a historian and conservationist with a passion for architecture, dives into the remarkable life of Christopher Wren, the genius behind St. Paul's Cathedral. They explore Wren's unexpected journey through architecture and science, revealing how his early experiences shaped his innovative designs. Learn about the triumphs and challenges he faced in reconstructing London post-Great Fire and his lasting impact on British architectural heritage. Brindle highlights Wren's brilliant fusion of tradition and modernity, making his work a cornerstone of early modern architecture.
Jul 13, 2025 • 28min
Pirates: Barbary Corsairs & The Bombardment of Algiers
Aaron Jaffer, Curator of World History and Cultures at the Royal Museums Greenwich, delves into the notorious Barbary Corsairs, who terrorized the Mediterranean for centuries. He unravels the gripping tale of the 1816 bombardment of Algiers, a pivotal moment that marked the decline of piracy. The discussion highlights Britain's naval strategies, the urgent quest to end Christian slavery, and the shift of power dynamics in the region. Jaffer also explores how these events set the stage for French colonial ambitions, reshaping Mediterranean history.
10 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 31min
Boudicca: Myths vs Reality
Dr. Shushma Malik, a Cambridge lecturer and author specializing in Roman history, dives into the complex legacy of Boudicca, the fierce queen of the Iceni. They discuss the contrasting accounts of Roman historians, revealing personal grievances that ignited her revolt against Roman rule. Malik highlights how Boudicca's enduring myth has reshaped women's representation in history and how her legacy continues to inspire modern narratives. The conversation unpacks the blend of fact and storytelling, making Boudicca's tale as compelling as her rebellion.
