Dan Carlin · History

Dan Carlin's Hardcore History

In "Hardcore History" journalist and broadcaster Dan Carlin takes his "Martian", unorthodox way of thinking and applies it to the past. Was Alexander the Great as bad a person as Adolf Hitler? What would Apaches with modern weapons be like? Will our modern civilization ever fall like civilizations from past eras? This isn't academic history (and Carlin isn't a historian) but the podcast's unique blend of high drama, masterful narration and Twilight Zone-style twists has entertained millions of listeners.

Episodes

This monologue podcast episode delves into the life of Alexander the Great, focusing on the period immediately following his father's assassination. The episode begins by establishing the uncertainty surrounding Alexander's succession and the immediate power struggles that ensued. Dan Carlin then explores the key eve...

Show 71 - Mania for Subjugation

07 Jun 2024

4h 11m

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This podcast episode explores the mythological tale of Daedalus and Icarus as a cautionary tale about the dangers of excessive ambition. It delves into the concept of ambition and its impact on historical figures like Julius Caesar and Alexander the Great. It discusses the similarities and differences between Greek cit...

Show 70 - Twilight of the Aesir II

19 Nov 2023

6h 23m

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This podcast episode provides a comprehensive exploration of Viking culture and history. It delves into various aspects such as their clash with Christianity, belief in mythical beings, worship of Norse gods, seafaring abilities, and encounters with different civilizations. The significance of the Viking Way and the co...

Show 69 - Twilight of the Aesir

15 Jan 2023

5h 10m

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This podcast episode delves into various aspects of the Viking Age, focusing on the geopolitical and historical context of Viking raids. It explores the rise of Charlemagne and his wars against the Saxons, the economic factors contributing to Viking piracy, advancements in Viking shipbuilding and navigation, motivation...

Show 68 - BLITZ Human Resources

06 Mar 2022

5h 39m

Show 67 - Supernova in the East VI

08 Jun 2021

5h 45m

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In this episode of Hardcore History, Dan Carlin delves into the grim realities of the final year of World War II, particularly in the Asia-Pacific theater, highlighting the staggering casualties and the controversial Allied policy of unconditional surrender. He explores the motivations behind the Axis powers' continued...

Show 66 - Supernova in the East V

13 Nov 2020

3h 32m

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In part five of the "Supernova in the East" podcast, Dan Carlin delves into the brutal realities of the Pacific Theater during World War II, focusing on the Japanese advance in New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, particularly the battle of Guadalcanal. He explores the atrocities committed by Japanese soldiers, question...

Show 65 - Supernova in the East IV

03 Jun 2020

3h 58m

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In part four of "Supernova in the East," Dan Carlin explores the complexities of morale in wartime, contrasting quantifiable war elements with the more elusive psychological aspects. He examines Franklin Delano Roosevelt's leadership in bolstering American morale after Pearl Harbor, including an analysis of his firesid...

Show 64 - Supernova in the East III

24 Oct 2019

4h 53m

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In Part 3 of "Supernova in the East," Dan Carlin delves into the complexities surrounding Japan's decision to attack Pearl Harbor, questioning the rationality of such a high-stakes gamble and exploring the various factors that contributed to this pivotal moment in history. He examines the racial undertones of the confl...

Show 63 - Supernova in the East II

12 Jan 2019

4h 1m

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In part two of "Supernova in the East," Dan Carlin explores the complexities surrounding atrocities, focusing on the Rape of Nanking and comparing it to historical events like the destruction of Babylon and Cremona, while also discussing the controversial nature of historical narratives and textbook portrayals of warti...

Show 62 - Supernova in the East I

14 Jul 2018

4h 28m

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In this episode of Hardcore History, Dan Carlin delves into the distinct culture of Japan, particularly focusing on the factors that led to Japanese soldiers continuing to fight years after World War II ended. He explores the concept of cultural "head binding," shaping individuals through societal influences, and exami...

Show 61 - (Blitz) Painfotainment

27 Jan 2018

4h 31m

Show 60 - The Celtic Holocaust

09 Aug 2017

5h 59m

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This podcast episode delves into the complexities of defining priorities and the profound choices individuals and societies face throughout history. It explores the sacrifices and risks individuals have made, from sending their own children to war to enduring genocidal conditions. The episode discusses historical examp...