Survive History

Survive History
  • 0.0 (0)
  • History
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to Survive History, the history channel that asks whether YOU could survive some of the most dangerous, daring and dirty jobs from the past. For sponsorship opportunities, brand partnerships and collaborations, please contact: survivehistory@gpopinc.com Presenter, producer and writer Louee Dessent studied ancient history at the University of Exeter and University of Oxford.

  1. Aug 5

    Could You Survive the French and Indian War? Insights from Braddock's 1755 Expedition

    Explore one of history's most challenging military campaigns: General Edward Braddock's 1755 expedition during the French and Indian War. This comprehensive episode immerses you in the life of a British soldier facing a punishing march through the Ohio Valley wilderness. Discover the realities of 18th-century military life, from disease and starvation to relentless marching and brutal discipline. Join presenter Louee Dessent as he follows the historical events at the heart of the Young Washington film, detailing the pivotal role of a young George Washington. Learn about the tactics used by French forces, Canadian militia, and Indigenous warriors that led to the devastating defeat known as Braddock's Defeat or the Battle of the Monongahela, where nearly 60% of Braddock's forces became casualties. Key segments include: ⚔️ The Wilderness Road to Fort Duquesne: Discover the challenges faced as Braddock's army carved a road across the Appalachian frontier. 🌲 Life as a Redcoat: Understand the harsh conditions soldiers endured, including minimal rations and constant threats of attack. 🦅 George Washington Before the Presidency: Examine Washington's early military experiences that shaped his future leadership. 🏹 Native American & French Frontier Warfare: Learn how these forces employed woodland tactics against European strategies. 💥 The Battle of the Monongahela: Experience the chaos and destruction of one of Britain's worst defeats in North America. This episode is a deep dive into the historical events that influenced the American Revolution and offers an engaging portrayal of survival under dire conditions. 00:00:00: Introduction to the French and Indian War and Braddock's expedition.00:04:30: The French and Indian War begins.00:06:40: Redcoats and recruitment in America.00:09:45: Tensions between regulars and colonials.00:11:37: Preparing for the wilderness campaign.00:14:26: Meeting General Edward Braddock.00:19:35: Issues of drunkenness and poor discipline.00:22:03: Drill and training at Fort Cumberland.00:23:59: The march through the wilderness begins.00:26:18: Crossing the Allegheny mountains.00:28:45: Challenges of Indians, disease, and desertion.00:31:47: Security on the march.00:34:22: Crossing the Monongahela.00:36:26: The Battle of the Monongahela begins.00:39:28: General Braddock is shot.00:42:06: Reflection on surviving the campaign. #FrenchandIndianWar #Braddock'sDefeat #GeneralEdwardBraddock #GeorgeWashington #BattleoftheMonongahela #18th-centurymilitarylife #NativeAmericantactics #SevenYears'War #Pulteney's13thRegimentofFoot #OhioValley See show notes: https://inlet.fm/survive-history/episodes/6a45d448c111c3877f531421 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Could You Survive the French and Indian War? Insights from Braddock's 1755 Expedition

  2. Aug 3

    Could You Survive History's Most Brutal Battles?

    Explore the harsh realities of history's most intense military battles in this comprehensive episode. From the chaos of the Anglo-Saxon shield wall at Hastings to the deadly attrition of the Battle of the Somme and Normandy, this episode examines pivotal conflicts from different eras. Discover the brutal conditions and survival challenges faced during the English Civil War at Marston Moor, the American Revolutionary War at Brandywine Creek, Camden, and Guilford Courthouse, and many more. This episode provides an in-depth look at the tactics, weapons, and hardships endured by soldiers across centuries. It serves as an invaluable resource for understanding the complexities of historical warfare and survival strategies. 00:00:00: Introduction to the episode.00:01:14: Battle of Hastings 1066 - Norman Invasion.00:14:10: Battle of Towton 1461 - Wars of the Roses.00:24:59: Battle of Edgehill 1642 - English Civil War.00:33:12: Battle of Marston Moor 1644 - English Civil War.00:39:31: Battle of Prestonpans 1745 - Jacobite Rebellion.00:44:23: Battle of Culloden 1746 - Jacobite Rebellion.00:47:53: Battle of Brandywine Creek 1777 - Revolutionary War.00:52:52: Battle of Camden 1780 - Revolutionary War.00:57:08: Battle of Guilford Courthouse 1781 - Revolutionary War.01:00:21: Battle of Waterloo 1815 - Napoleonic Wars.01:14:43: Battle of Casteau 1914 - World War One.01:19:28: Battle of the Somme 1916 - World War One.01:26:17: Battle of Normandy 1944 - World War Two.01:40:45: Conclusion of the episode. #historicalbattles #militaryhistory #survivaltactics #EnglishCivilWar #RevolutionaryWar #NapoleonicWars #WorldWarOne #WorldWarTwo #battleanalysis See show notes: https://inlet.fm/survive-history/episodes/6a3adb53837e6f71cc6a12e2 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Could You Survive History's Most Brutal Battles?

  3. Jul 30

    Could You Survive a Medieval Battle in the Wars of the Roses?

    In this episode, we delve into the complex and dangerous world of the Wars of the Roses, a pivotal series of civil wars in English history. Often oversimplified as a conflict between the houses of York and Lancaster, the reality was far more chaotic and perilous for the common soldiers. Join us as we explore the life of a soldier during this tumultuous period. We look at how a man-at-arms dressed for battle, the role and training of longbowmen, and the true weight and protection offered by 15th-century plate armor. Discover the grueling physical demands of medieval warfare, from the challenges of fighting in full armor to the logistics of feeding an army and maintaining sanitation on campaign. We also examine the strategic importance of cavalry, the use of artillery and archery, and the brutal melee combat that defined battles of the era. Learn why most casualties occurred during the rout rather than the battle itself, and how plundering was often the only way for soldiers to profit. Additionally, we discuss the role of medieval surgeons in saving lives and the staggering human cost of battles like Towton. This episode draws on a variety of sources, including contemporary chronicles, archaeological findings, and first-hand accounts, to provide a comprehensive and authoritative look at medieval warfare. 00:00:00: Introduction to the Wars of the Roses.00:04:48: The Wars of the Roses begin.00:07:53: Discussion on armor and equipment.00:13:21: Getting dressed in plate armor.00:16:13: Role and training of longbowmen.00:23:31: Yorkists or Lancastrians?00:26:51: Badges and symbols.00:29:57: Choosing a weapon.00:34:44: One-on-one armoured combat.00:37:11: Feeding an army.00:43:35: Sanitation and toilet business.00:45:12: Life on the march.00:49:08: Getting ready for battle.00:51:01: Cavalry during the Wars of the Roses.00:55:13: The battle begins.00:57:57: The army routs.01:00:35: Rough treatment and plundering.01:03:10: The impact of the Wars of the Roses. #WarsoftheRoses #medievalbattle #medievalwarfare #man-at-arms #longbowmen #platearmor #cavalry #battlefieldsurvival #medievalsurgeons #Towtonbattle #medievalhistory See show notes: https://inlet.fm/survive-history/episodes/6a3adb5c837e6f71cc6a131a Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Could You Survive a Medieval Battle in the Wars of the Roses?

  4. Jul 28

    Could You Survive in George Washington's Militia During the Revolutionary War?

    Explore whether you could have survived in George Washington's militia during the American Revolutionary War. This episode delves into the lives of the Patriot militia, the untrained yet fiercely independent citizen soldiers pivotal in the Southern Campaign of the American War of Independence. Discover how these militia members, often mythologized as superhuman marksmen, faced tremendous challenges. Key topics include: Facing the Bogeyman: Experience the fear of being pursued by the infamous British cavalry officer, Banastre Tarleton, known for his ruthless tactics. The Swamp Fox: Learn about militia commander Francis Marion, the legendary "Swamp Fox," and his guerrilla warfare tactics against British supply lines while battling diseases like malaria and typhus. Chaos and Carnage: Relive the chaos at the Battle of Camden, where the militia's disorganization led to a disastrous defeat, underscored by incidents like the molasses meal mishap. Survival Struggles: Understand the harsh realities faced by "shirtmen"—mounted infantrymen enduring meagre rations, disease, and partisan warfare. From the loss at Savannah to the siege at Yorktown, we pose the ultimate question: Could you endure the disease, exhaustion, and brutal conflict to witness the birth of the United States? 00:00: Introduction04:40: War in the southern colonies05:50: Who were the militia?10:46: Meeting the militia captain17:16: The first battles for the militia19:03: Life on campaign21:15: Meeting a French soldier25:36: The Siege of Savannah27:08: Tarleton's British Legion30:03: Horatio Gates goes south32:25: Battle of Camden34:04: Francis Marion - the Swamp Fox38:09: The Battle of Cowpens and King's Mountain40:10: Battle of Guilford Courthouse42:13: Firing an 18th century cannon47:35: Siege of Yorktown49:29: Could you survive the Revolutionary War? #GeorgeWashington'smilitia #AmericanRevolutionaryWar #Patriotmilitia #SouthernCampaign #BanastreTarleton #FrancisMarion #SwampFox #BattleofCamden #Guerrillawarfare #SiegeofYorktown #RevolutionaryWarsurvival See show notes: https://inlet.fm/survive-history/episodes/6a3adb66837e6f71cc6a13a6 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Could You Survive in George Washington's Militia During the Revolutionary War?

  5. Jul 27

    Could You Survive as a Soldier in George Washington's Army?

    Step back 250 years to explore the harsh realities faced by soldiers in George Washington's Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. This episode, hosted by Louee Dessent, delves into the experiences of the 6th Virginia Regiment, a living history group that sheds light on the challenges ordinary colonists faced when transformed into soldiers. Discover the relentless training, brutal marches, and the constant threats of hunger, exhaustion, and disease. Learn how harsh discipline was essential to maintain order and unity within the ranks. Relive pivotal moments that defined America's struggle for independence, including the daring Crossing of the Delaware, the surprise attack at Trenton, and the desperate rearguard action at Brandywine Creek. Experience the harsh winter at Valley Forge, where Washington's army endured extreme hardship but emerged stronger and more united. Additionally, the episode explores the stark choices colonists faced: loyalty to the Crown or rebellion. It highlights the challenges of confronting British Redcoats, Hessian mercenaries, and Native American allies of the British. This immersive experience was filmed in collaboration with the 6th Virginia Regiment, 33rd Regiment of Foot, and Worcestershire Cavalry, bringing the Revolutionary War battlefield to life. Key collaborators include the 6th Virginia Regiment UK, 33rd Regiment of Foot, Worcestershire Cavalry, Avoncroft Living History Museum, Marshall Beresford, and Primary Source Media. 00:00:00: Introduction00:04:28: The revolution begins00:09:40: Joining my regiment (the 6th Virginia)00:16:33: Loyalists, redcoats and runaway slaves00:19:51: Preparing for war00:21:48: Life on campaign00:25:50: Discipline in George Washington's army00:28:00: The Battle of Trenton00:29:24: The Hessians00:35:46: Native Americans00:37:19: The Battle of Princeton00:38:57: Prison hulks00:39:55: Disease in military camps00:41:15: Smallpox00:45:21: The campaign of 1777 begins00:48:09: The Battle of Brandywine and Germantown00:51:49: Valley Forge #AmericanRevolutionaryWar #GeorgeWashington #ContinentalArmy #6thVirginiaRegiment #CrossingoftheDelaware #BattleofTrenton #ValleyForge #RevolutionaryWarbattles #Colonialsoldiers #Militaryhistory #Survivalinwar See show notes: https://inlet.fm/survive-history/episodes/6a3adb74837e6f71cc6a1401 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Could You Survive as a Soldier in George Washington's Army?

  6. Jul 23

    Could You Endure the Battle of Waterloo?

    On June 18, 1815, the Battle of Waterloo was a pivotal event that determined Napoleon's fate and reshaped the European landscape. But what was it truly like for the ordinary soldiers caught amidst the mud, smoke, and chaos? This episode provides a deep dive into the lived experiences of the rank-and-file during this historic battle. Join presenter Louee Dessent as he visits the actual Waterloo battlefield in Belgium on the 210th anniversary of the battle. He brings to life the experiences of the 42nd Highland Regiment, known as the Black Watch. This immersive journey transports listeners to the heart of Napoleonic warfare, highlighting the harsh realities faced by soldiers: Sleepless marches and harsh weather conditions with meager rations. The thunderous onslaught of Napoleon’s Grand Batterie, unleashing 246 cannons. Confrontations with French infantry and the elite Imperial Guard. Holding defensive lines against relentless cavalry charges. Navigating treacherous terrain with poorly functioning weapons. Listeners will also learn about the grim aftermath, including the nearly 50,000 casualties and the infamous trade in “Waterloo teeth.” From Quatre Bras to the desperate stand on Mont St. Jean ridge, Louee explores musket drills, survival tactics, and the rudimentary medical practices of the time. Discover the sheer will required to survive one of history’s bloodiest days. This episode is a historically accurate journey into the heart of the Napoleonic Wars—could you endure the Battle of Waterloo? 00:00: Introduction to the Battle of Waterloo.02:08: Background of the Battle of Waterloo.03:11: Overview of the Duke of Wellington's Allied Army.05:24: The Battles of Quatre Bras and Ligny.12:50: The night before the battle, filled with anticipation and hardships.15:57: Conversation with the Duke of Wellington.23:13: Preparations for the Battle of Waterloo.27:59: Commencement of the Battle of Waterloo.29:28: The French infantry launches an attack.34:52: Defense against the French cavalry.38:23: Arrival of Blucher's Prussian forces.39:51: Advance of the Imperial Guard.41:22: Allied forces secure victory.42:30: Reflections on the cost of the Battle of Waterloo. #BattleofWaterloo #NapoleonicWars #BlackWatch #42ndHighlandRegiment #Napoleon #DukeofWellington #militaryhistory #19th-centurywarfare #Waterloobattlefield #artillery #infantrytactics See show notes: https://inlet.fm/survive-history/episodes/6a3adb7a837e6f71cc6a142b Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Could You Endure the Battle of Waterloo?

  7. Jul 22

    Could You Survive as a WW1 Cavalryman on the Western Front?

    Explore the challenging life of a cavalryman during World War I with an immersive experience led by host Louee Dessent. This episode provides a deep dive into the realities faced by cavalry units on the Western Front, from the initial cavalry charges of 1914 to the grueling trench warfare that followed. Join Louee as he dons authentic WW1 British cavalry gear, including the SMLE rifle and cavalry sword, to participate in maneuvers and drills that mirror historical tactics. Discover the adaptation and challenges cavalry units faced amidst the mud and machine guns of WWI, supported by firsthand accounts from both British and German soldiers. Key segments include insights into the use of the Vickers machine gun, German WW1 weapons, cavalry sword training, and battlefield tactics. The episode also provides statistical insights into the survival odds of cavalry troopers during the war, featuring expert commentary from Richard Townsley and members of the Worcestershire Cavalry and German WW1 reenactment community. This comprehensive episode serves as a valuable resource for understanding WW1 combat realism and the evolution of warfare tactics during the early 20th century. 00:00:00: Introduction to WW1 cavalry life.00:04:16: Overview of cavalry before WW1.00:07:03: Role of British cavalry in 1914.00:11:10: Transition to trench warfare.00:16:33: Discussion on the Vickers machine gun.00:18:56: Cavalry training and organization.00:23:14: Battle of the Somme in 1916.00:26:00: German infantry weapons and gear.00:31:11: The harsh winters of 1916-17.00:34:59: Caring for horses during the war.00:40:01: Introduction of tanks.00:43:04: The German Spring Offensive of 1918.00:46:14: Cavalry successes in 1918.00:48:51: Discussion on survival as a cavalryman. #WW1cavalry #WesternFront #cavalrytactics #trenchwarfare #Vickersmachinegun #GermanWW1weapons #cavalrytraining #BattleoftheSomme #WW1survivalodds #historicalwarfare See show notes: https://inlet.fm/survive-history/episodes/6a3adb9c837e6f71cc6a1528 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Could You Survive as a WW1 Cavalryman on the Western Front?

  8. Jul 20

    Could You Survive as a Viking Settler?

    Explore the challenging life of Viking settlers in this immersive episode. Host Louee Dessent delves into the harsh realities faced by Norse pioneers in the North Atlantic colonies of Iceland, Greenland, and Vinland (North America). Learn about the brutal winters, scarce food, and threats from bandits, raiders, and wild animals that these settlers endured. This episode, filmed at the Moorforge Viking Settlement in Cumbria, offers a hands-on historical experience. Louee steps inside a Viking longhouse, tests his skills in archery, and participates in Glíma, the traditional Norse wrestling style. He also explores the conflicts with hostile groups and the survival challenges during the long, dark winters. Using historical sources like Viking sagas, Louee uncovers the stories of the Viking colonies, examining their temporary success and eventual failure. Discover why these colonies thrived and what led to their downfall. Join us and consider whether you could survive as a Viking settler in these unforgiving environments. 00:00:00: Introduction to Viking settlement challenges.00:05:09: Arrival of the Vikings in Iceland.00:07:54: Exploration of the Viking longhouse.00:10:03: Viking sports and traditional wrestling.00:14:00: Paganism versus Christianity in Viking society.00:15:49: Discussion on Viking laws and lawbreakers.00:18:18: Eric the Red's discovery of Greenland.00:19:58: Survival in Greenland's harsh conditions.00:22:04: Dealing with death and illness among settlers.00:23:41: The role of the Viking völva (seeress).00:30:55: Vikings' discovery of North America.00:33:04: Interaction between Vikings and Native Americans.00:37:09: What led to the decline of Viking colonies. #Vikingsettlers #Norsepioneers #Iceland #Greenland #Vinland #MoorforgeVikingSettlement #Vikinglonghouse #Glíma #Vikingsagas #ErictheRed #Vikingvölva #Norsesociety See show notes: https://inlet.fm/survive-history/episodes/6a3adba9837e6f71cc6a15b1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Could You Survive as a Viking Settler?
See All (19)

About

Welcome to Survive History, the history channel that asks whether YOU could survive some of the most dangerous, daring and dirty jobs from the past. For sponsorship opportunities, brand partnerships and collaborations, please contact: survivehistory@gpopinc.com Presenter, producer and writer Louee Dessent studied ancient history at the University of Exeter and University of Oxford.

Information