Dan Snow's History Hit
History Hit
Historian Dan Snow journeys across the globe to tell the stories of history's defining moments. From the Colosseum in Rome to the Great Wall of China, the battlefields of Waterloo to the Tomb of Tutankhamun, join Dan as he explores the how and why of the greatest monuments, battles, heroes, villains and events that have shaped our world.New episodes on Mondays and Thursdays with bonus subscriber only episodes every other Friday.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
Jan 5, 2025 • 58min
Rome's Greatest Humiliation: Roman Empire vs Germanic Tribes
In this engaging discussion, Simon Elliott, a renowned expert in Roman military history, delves into one of Rome's most devastating defeats in 9 AD. He shares gripping details about Arminius and the ambush of Roman legions in the Teutoburg Forest. Elliott uncovers how this catastrophic loss reshaped Roman military strategies and ambitions in Germania. The psychological impact on Roman soldiers and the strategic failures that led to chaos are vividly explored, offering listeners a deep understanding of an event that left a significant mark on the Roman psyche.
11 snips
Jan 3, 2025 • 54min
The Battle of the Bulge
John C. McManus, a Professor of US Military History and author of 'Alamo in the Ardennes', shares fascinating insights into the Battle of the Bulge. He discusses the desperate German offensive in winter 1944 and the bravery of American troops that turned the tide of the war. The conversation highlights the human cost, intelligence failures, and strategic dynamics at play. McManus recounts gripping tales from the beleaguered town of Bastogne, showcasing the iconic 'Nuts!' response and the resilience that ultimately sealed Nazi Germany's fate.
12 snips
Jan 1, 2025 • 29min
The Great Fire of London
Adrian Tinniswood, a historian and expert on the Great Fire of London, joins the discussion to unravel the catastrophic events of September 1666. He delves into the fire's origins in a bakery, the chaos and panic that ensued, and the gripping personal narratives, including those of Samuel Pepys. Tinniswood contrasts the Duke of York's heroic actions with King Charles II's indifference. The aftermath saw not just destruction but scapegoating of foreigners, highlighting societal tensions of the time. The conversation underscores the profound legacy of this disaster in reshaping London's future.
12 snips
Dec 30, 2024 • 37min
The Fall of Constantinople
In a fascinating discussion, Professor Mark David Baer, a leading expert on Ottoman history from the London School of Economics, dives into the dramatic fall of Constantinople in 1453. He highlights how Mehmed II's long-held dream culminated in the end of the Eastern Roman Empire. The podcast also explores the transformative changes post-conquest, including surprising policies of inclusivity and infrastructural growth. Baer reveals the psychological turmoil faced by defenders, underscoring the event's profound historical impact on Europe and Asia.
42 snips
Dec 27, 2024 • 44min
The Origins of Istanbul
Jonathan Harris, a Professor of the History of Byzantium at Royal Holloway and author of 'Constantinople: Capital of Byzantium', takes us on a journey through Istanbul's fascinating history. He discusses its origins as Byzantium, the strategic significance that made it a thriving center of trade and culture, and the pivotal moment when Constantine founded Constantinople. Harris delves into the city's resilience during sieges, its wealth from trade, and how the Ottoman conquest transformed it into a modern metropolis, highlighting the enduring impact of its rich legacy.
Dec 25, 2024 • 47min
Charles Dickens' Christmas
Join London-born tour guide David Charnick as he reveals the hidden streets of Dickensian London. Discover the old debtor's prison that haunted Dickens' youth, the eerie influences behind Ebenezer Scrooge, and the ghostly settings of A Christmas Carol. Charnick sheds light on Dickens' childhood struggles with debt and how they shaped his characters. The conversation reveals the harsh realities of Victorian life, from despair to redemption, wrapped in a warm, festive atmosphere.
Dec 23, 2024 • 30min
Folk Christmas: Yule, Solstice & Ancient English Traditions
Join local historian Richard Reeves, specializing in the New Forest, and folklore expert Vikki Bramshaw, author of 'New Forest Folklore, Traditions and Charms', as they explore England's winter folk traditions. They dive into the dark origins of Christmas customs, from the Yule log to sinister divination practices. Discover how medieval communities survived harsh winters and the unique traditions, like fortune-telling chestnuts, that shaped today's celebrations. Unravel the intriguing tales of the Hooden Horse and the captivating landscape of the New Forest.
Dec 20, 2024 • 19min
How the Mongols Changed the World
Marie Favereau, an Associate Professor of History at Paris Nanterre University, dives into the profound legacy of the Mongol Empire. She unpacks how the Mongols shaped global development, akin to Rome, and facilitated a vibrant entrepreneurial boom across Eurasia. The conversation reveals the complexity of Mongol governance, their innovative military strategies, and the cultural exchanges they fostered. Favereau also discusses the misconceptions around nomadic societies, highlighting the Mongols' dual role as conquerors and effective city builders.
Dec 18, 2024 • 38min
Georgian Christmas
In this lively discussion, Rob Smith, a Footprints of London tour guide and expert on the city's history, reveals the raucous nature of Georgian Christmas celebrations. Listeners will be amused by tales of bare-knuckle boxing and absurd antics like an 18th-century showman cooking beef under his arms. Rob also highlights the cultural landscape shaped by the likes of Joey Grimaldi, the world's first clown, and contrasts the festive revelry with the more subdued Victorian times. It's a window into a vibrant, lewd, and extraordinary holiday spirit!
4 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 40min
The Cod Wars
William Reynolds, a Lecturer in Defence Studies at King's College London and an expert on maritime conflicts, dives deep into the peculiar Cod Wars. He reveals how fish sparked fierce naval confrontations between British fishermen and the Icelandic Coast Guard. Tactics included ramming ships and even live fire, shaking NATO’s foundations. Reynolds highlights the economic stakes, Iceland's strategic victories, and the broader implications for maritime law and international relations between the UK and Iceland.
