The Ancients
History Hit
A podcast for all ancient history fans! The Ancients is dedicated to discussing our distant past. Featuring interviews with historians and archaeologists, each episode covers a specific theme from antiquity. From Neolithic Britain to the Fall of Rome. Hosted by Tristan Hughes. New episodes every Sunday and Thursday.From History Hit, the world's best history channel and creators of award-winning podcasts Dan Snow's History Hit, 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
47 snips
Jan 2, 2025 • 53min
Who Was the Real King Arthur?
Dr. Miles Russell, an archaeologist at Bournemouth University, joins Tristan Hughes to dissect the enigma of King Arthur. They unveil the historical inspirations behind Arthur, including figures like Ambrosius Aurelianus and Magnus Maximus. The duo explores how oral traditions influenced the shaping of Arthur’s myth, contrasting early warrior depictions with later romanticized narratives. Delving into the complexities of British heritage, they reveal the intricate connections between history and legend that define the Arthurian saga.
39 snips
Dec 29, 2024 • 51min
Emperor Constantine
In this discussion, Professor David Potter, an expert in Roman history from the University of Michigan, dives into the tumultuous life of Emperor Constantine I. They unveil the gripping stories behind Constantine's rise, including his brutal decisions regarding family and the pivotal Battle of the Milvian Bridge. Potter also examines Constantine's unique blend of paganism and Christianity, illustrating how he navigated these beliefs to unify the empire. The conversation promises insights into the complexities of leadership and the legacy Constantine forged in history.
26 snips
Dec 26, 2024 • 56min
Tomb of King Herod
Jodi Magnus, a renowned professor specializing in ancient history, joins Tristan Hughes to discuss the intriguing life of King Herod. They delve into the dark tales of his reign, including the infamous Massacre of the Innocents and its contrasts with historical evidence. The discovery of Herod's tomb reveals architectural brilliance tied to both Greek and Judaic influences. They also explore Herod's complex legacy, examining how his mausoleum reflects his aspirations for legitimacy, alongside the gruesome details of his demise and future archaeological hopes.
115 snips
Dec 22, 2024 • 45min
Druids
Join Tristan Hughes and Professor Ronald Hutton, a respected expert on ancient history and Druidic studies, as they unravel the mysterious world of Druids in Britain and France. They discuss Caesar's encounters with these formidable foes and Cicero's intriguing meetings with a Druid leader. The conversation delves into the complexities of Druidic rituals, including the controversial debate on human sacrifice, and tackles the Druids' role in resisting Roman forces. Explore how perceptions of these enigmatic figures have evolved through the ages.
44 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 42min
The Birth of Money
In this enlightening discussion, Alan Ereira, a TV producer, author, and history professor, unravels the profound impact of gold on civilization. He takes listeners on a journey from the Varna Culture's early use of gold to the revolutionary minting of coins by King Croesus. Ereira examines the intertwined evolution of trade and currency while detailing the first-ever financial crash in history. The conversation highlights how gold transitioned from a status symbol to a backbone of economic systems and its lasting legacy in today's financial landscape.
11 snips
Dec 15, 2024 • 48min
The Thracians
Dr. Zosia Archibald, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Liverpool specializing in Thracian archaeology, takes listeners on a journey through the world of the ancient Thracians. They were skilled cavalry experts and riches creators, influencing Greek mythology and the Iliad. Discover the stunning Panagyurishte Treasure and the enigmatic head of Seuthes III. Archibald highlights their complex relationships with Greek culture and their resilience amid external pressures, shedding light on an often-overlooked chapter in Eastern European history.
8 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 41min
The Wise Men
Reverend Professor Lloyd Llewellyn Jones, an expert in ancient history and the Bible, dives into the captivating tales of the Three Wise Men. He reveals their multifaceted identities, exploring their symbolism, cultural impacts, and role as early recognizers of Christ. The conversation also highlights the significance of the Star of Bethlehem and its connections to prophecy. Artistic representations from antiquity to the Renaissance are examined, showcasing how these narratives have evolved throughout history, while emphasizing their enduring legacy in modern perspectives.
33 snips
Dec 8, 2024 • 42min
Hanukkah & the Maccabees
Join Dr. Jodi Magness, a Professor at the University of North Carolina and an expert on ancient Jewish history, as she unpacks the fascinating origins of Hanukkah. Delve into the gripping story of the Maccabean Revolt against the oppressive Seleucid Empire over 2,000 years ago. Discover how the revolt shaped Jewish identity amid Hellenistic pressures and the pivotal actions of figures like Mattathias and Judah Maccabee. This rich narrative explores themes of defiance, cultural survival, and the historical significance of Jerusalem's temple rededication.
30 snips
Dec 5, 2024 • 52min
Origins of the Wheel
Dr. Richard Bulliet, a Professor Emeritus at Columbia University renowned for his work in archaeology, and Dr. Kai James, a computational engineer who employs modeling to validate historical theories, delve into the origins of the wheel. They propose a fascinating idea that prehistoric miners in the Carpathian Mountains engineered the wheel around 6,000 years ago. The discussion covers the wheel's impact on mining and transport, the cultural shifts during the Copper to Bronze Age, and the intricate relationship between early technology and environmental factors.
65 snips
Dec 1, 2024 • 47min
The First South Americans
In a captivating discussion, Dr. Tom Dillehay, an esteemed archaeologist from Vanderbilt University, shares his groundbreaking research on early human migration to South America. He highlights stunning discoveries at Monte Verde, including ancient tools and mastodon remains, which challenge the Clovis-first theory, suggesting humans thrived in diverse habitats over 14,500 years ago. The conversation delves into the intricate survival strategies and environmental adaptations of these early communities, revealing their sophisticated relationship with nature and shedding light on our shared human history.
