

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

4 snips
Nov 8, 2023 • 52min
The Rise of Hitler
Leading historian of the Third Reich, Frank McDonough, discusses Hitler's rise to power, his manipulation of German politics, and the wheels of the Holocaust already being set in motion. Topics include Hitler's failed coup, his trial and shift in strategy, his romantic life, the appeal and support for Hitler among rural voters, and the exclusion of undesirables.

Nov 7, 2023 • 43min
Hitler's Early Years
Historian Frank McDonough joins the podcast to discuss Hitler's early years, including his upbringing, childhood passions, and the impact of World War I on his political views. The episode also covers Hitler's failed first attempt to seize power - the Beer Hall Putsch.

Nov 6, 2023 • 32min
Pocahontas: The True Story
Camilla Townsend, a Historian of Early Native American and Latin American History, joins Dan Snow to discuss the true story of Pocahontas beyond the Disney movie. They explore her role as an intermediary between her people and the English, her journey to London, and the importance of understanding different viewpoints in history.

Nov 3, 2023 • 30min
Hunting Pablo Escobar
Ex-DEA agents Javier Peña and Steve Murphy, portrayed in Narcos, discuss the rise and fall of Pablo Escobar, narco-terrorism, corruption, airport smuggling, Escobar's escape, vigilante revenge, failed attempts to protect his family, his difficulties on the run, the determination of the search team, reflections on human beings, the importance of hope, leadership approach, and a limited-time offer for a History Hit subscription.

Nov 3, 2023 • 34min
Babylon
Amanda Podany, Professor emeritus of history at Cal State Poly, joins Dan Snow to discuss the foundational civilization of ancient Mesopotamia, focusing on the city of Babylon. They explore the vibrant social dynamics, governance, and prosperity of the civilization. They also delve into topics like Hammurabi's enduring legacy, Mesopotamian contributions to science and astronomy, and the enduring civilization of Babylon.

Nov 3, 2023 • 33min
The Salem Witch Trials
Uncover the disturbing history of the Salem Witch Trials, fueled by the 15th-century book called the 'Hammer of Witches' and its obsession with blaming women. Explore the religious, social, and cultural factors that led to the escalation of witch hunts. Dive into the chaotic nature of the trials, influenced by young girls and the court system. Reflect on the Puritans' paranoid mindset and explore the significance of the trials in relation to religious freedom and the community's turning point.

Nov 3, 2023 • 32min
James Beckwourth, Conquering the American Frontier
James Beckwourth, a pioneering frontiersman, embarked on an adventurous journey through the American West, embedding himself in Native American tribes. He traversed the Sierra Nevada mountains, hunted wild animals, hunted for gold, and experienced inter-tribe warfare. Historian Ann Manheimer joins Dan Snow to weave a gripping tale about Beckwourth's life, exploring his relationships, business ventures, military involvement, and his reputation as both a ruffian and an honest businessman. They also discuss the trustworthiness of Beckwourth's stories and adventures. The podcast concludes by delving into Beckwourth's mysterious death and a book dedicated to him.

Nov 3, 2023 • 36min
Tutankhamun: The Valley of the Kings - Signal Award Gold!
Explore the Valley of the Kings in Ancient Egypt and Howard Carter's remarkable discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb. Delve into the treacherous conditions, awe-inspiring objects found, and historical significance of the tomb. Learn about Europe's fascination with ancient Egypt through Napoleon's expedition and Giovanni Belzoni's remarkable discoveries. Discover the controversial figure of Belzoni and his contributions to archaeology. Uncover the history and mysteries hidden in the Valley of the Kings, including the sponsorship of Theodore M. Davis and Howard Carter's determination to uncover more royal burials.

Nov 3, 2023 • 32min
Reburying the Dead of America's Revolutionary War
This podcast explores the Battle of Camden in the American Revolutionary War, discussing the strategies and outcomes of the British victory. It also delves into the analysis of musket balls and battle engagements, as well as the discovery of a mass grave from the war. The episode concludes with a poignant exploration of the burial and funeral procession for the fallen soldiers.

Nov 3, 2023 • 50min
The Murder of Christopher Marlowe
Charles Nicholl investigates the 1593 murder of Christopher Marlowe, discussing evidence of shadowy political dealings. They explore Marlowe's role as a spy and the circumstances surrounding his interrogation and release. The hosts delve into the theory of the murder, recommending further reading and other podcasts.