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
Oct 28, 2024 • 40min
2. Wars of the Roses: Rise of the Tudors
Historian Matt Lewis, an expert on medieval history and host of the podcast Gone Medieval, delves into the chaos of the Wars of the Roses. He reveals the bloody Battle of Towton and its role in Edward IV's rise to power, alongside the treachery of Warwick the 'Kingmaker.' Discussions include the internal conflicts within the Yorkist faction and Edward's consolidation of power leading to the Tudor dynasty's emergence. Lewis also highlights the shifting political dynamics and the challenges faced by later monarchs in a transforming England.
Oct 24, 2024 • 50min
1. Wars of the Roses: England Divided
Join historian Matt Lewis, host of Gone Medieval, as he delves into the brutal Wars of the Roses. Discover the intense rivalries within the Plantagenet family, and learn how Henry VI's ineffective reign ignited chaos among the nobility. The first bloody battles are recounted, including the pivotal Battle of St Albans. Lewis reveals the personal and political tensions that shaped these historic conflicts, culminating in Edward's dramatic rise amidst the turmoil. Get ready for a deep dive into England's fierce fight for the throne!
4 snips
Oct 22, 2024 • 37min
The Origins of Halloween
Dr. Regina Sexton, a food historian, and Dr. Kelly Fitzgerald, a folklorist from University College Dublin, explore the rich origins of Halloween. They dive into the traditional Samhain practices, revealing unique customs like turnip carving and the eerie Barmbrack cake, which foretells the future. Fitzgerald unravels the captivating Irish folklore surrounding the ‘three worlds’, sharing tales of fairies and spirits. Together, they illustrate how ancient traditions have evolved into the modern celebrations we know today, blending fun with deeper cultural significance.
Oct 20, 2024 • 36min
The Great Napoleonic Escape
Katherine Gazzard, a curator at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich and expert on the Napoleonic Wars, shares the incredible tale of Lieutenant Charles Hare, a young British naval officer who cleverly escaped from a French POW camp. Disguised as a French customs officer, he navigated a perilous journey across Europe with his loyal terrier, evading capture. Gazzard recounts Hare's ingenious strategies, the harsh realities faced by POWs during the Napoleonic Wars, and the historical significance of his daring escape, now showcased in a new exhibition.
Oct 17, 2024 • 39min
The Hunt for the Endurance Shipwreck
Join an exhilarating journey to the icy depths of the Weddell Sea as the hunt for Shackleton's legendary shipwreck unfolds. Experience the thrill of discovery and the nail-biting challenges faced by the expedition crew in one of the harshest environments on Earth. From harrowing tales of survival to emotional reflections on the legacy of bravery, this tale intertwines historical daring with modern exploration. The echo of a steam whistle signals not just safety, but the triumph of uncovering the past beneath the Antarctic waves.
13 snips
Oct 15, 2024 • 52min
Tom Crean: The Unsung Irish Hero of the Antarctic
Dive into the remarkable life of Tom Crean, the unsung hero of Antarctic exploration. Discover his daring rescues amid lethal blizzards and the steadfast courage he displayed alongside legends like Shackleton. The podcast explores Crean's emotional ups and downs during grueling expeditions, from enduring icy hardships to showcasing incredible teamwork. Uncover his legacy as both a pivotal figure in history and a humble Irishman returning to quiet life, despite his extraordinary feats in one of the world's most unforgiving landscapes.
Oct 13, 2024 • 30min
Ernest Shackleton
Explore the incredible tale of Ernest Shackleton, a charismatic Antarctic explorer who faced unimaginable hardships when his ship, Endurance, was trapped in ice. Discover his miraculous leadership, navigating extreme conditions to ensure every crew member's survival. Learn about the unsung hero, Tom Crean, whose resilience shone through in their perilous journeys. The podcast delves into Shackleton's audacious attitude, questioning if his seemingly reckless approach was key to his legendary status. A riveting look at adventure, survival, and camaraderie!
Oct 10, 2024 • 23min
Scotland & England's Union
Professor Murray Pittock, a prominent historian and Pro-vice principal at the University of Glasgow, dives into the complex union between Scotland and England that began in 1707. He discusses how Scotland sought economic stability while England aimed for political safeguards. The conversation highlights the historical significance of the Acts of Union, the evolving national identities, and Scotland's influential roles in the British Empire and military history. Pittock also examines the lasting effects of this union on contemporary discussions of Scottish independence.
9 snips
Oct 8, 2024 • 30min
Scotland's Disastrous Attempt at Empire
Douglas Watt, author of "The Price of Scotland," dives into Scotland's ambitious yet disastrous attempt to colonize Panama in the late 17th century. He discusses the dreams of wealth and trade that drove the ill-fated Darien scheme, where 1,200 settlers faced harsh realities, tropical diseases, and ultimately, death. Watt reveals how this national catastrophe not only impacted those who ventured to Darien but also reshaped Scotland's economy and fueled the urgency for political union with England.
Oct 6, 2024 • 59min
Robert the Bruce, King of Scots
Michael Penman, a senior lecturer at the University of Stirling and author of "Robert the Bruce: King of the Scots," delves into the life of this legendary figure. He discusses Robert's early struggles, including his famous encounter with a spider, and highlights his strategic genius in the Battle of Bannockburn. Penman reveals Robert’s complex identity and shifting allegiances amidst the turbulent Scottish power struggles. The conversation showcases Bruce's betrayal of rivals and his relentless pursuit of Scottish independence from English rule.
