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Artwork for The Ancients

The Ancients

History Hit
Bronze Age Collapse
Sea Peoples
Jesus Of Nazareth
Ancient Rome
Iron Age
Mesolithic
Egypt
Ireland
Hittites
Mycenaeans
Marcus Tullius Cicero
Roman Republic
Julius Caesar
Roman Religion
Class Divide
Public Baths
Public Toilets
Pickpockets
Sewage and Sanitation
Slavery In Rome

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 ... more

PublishesTwice weeklyEpisodes717Founded6 years ago
Number of ListenersCategory
History

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Artwork for The Ancients

Latest Episodes

A legend of the great Greek city of Athens, Themistocles rose from obscurity to save ancient Greece and helped shape one of the greatest naval powers in history. Yet his story ends in exile, condemned as a traitor and serving the very empire he once ... more

What made the Hittites one of the great Bronze Age powers, and how did their empire survive on war, diplomacy and faith? Tristan Hughes is joined by Professor Elena Devecchi to uncover ancient royal intrigue, lavish festivals, the 'Thousand God', and... more

Tristan Hughes is joined by Ella Al-Shamahi, paleoanthropologist and presenter of the hit BBC series Human, to explore what interactions between early Homo sapiens and Neanderthals may have been like, from communication and cultural exchange to inter... more

How did Roman silver travel from Egypt to China across monsoon seas, pirate waters, and bustling ports?

Tristan Hughes is joined by legendary archaeologist Sir Barry Cunliffe for a dramatic journey through the Indian Ocean, where Roman glass, peppe... more

Key Facts

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Recent Guests

Barry Cunliffe
Archaeologist and author focusing on ancient trade networks
University of Oxford (historical), author of Driven by the Monsoons
Episode: The Romans and China
Paul Middleton
Professor of the New Testament and Early Christianity
University of Chester
Episode: Judas Iscariot
Selina Brace
Dr., expert in ancient DNA
Natural History Museum / University of Liverpool (associated through paper)
Episode: Britain's First Dog
William Marsh
Dr., researcher on ancient DNA and canine domestication
Natural History Museum
Episode: Britain's First Dog
Dr. Ben Kane
Bestselling author and expert on the Roman military
Author, historian
Episode: The Roman Centurion
Polly Low
Professor of Ancient History and imperialism
University of Durham
Episode: The Delian League: Ancient NATO?
Dr. Andrew Bayliss
Associate Professor in Greek History, University of Birmingham
University of Birmingham
Episode: Leonidas: King of Sparta, Hero of Thermopylae
Dr. Hannah Cornwell
Associate Professor in Ancient History
University of Birmingham
Episode: What if the Ides of March Failed?
Roel Konijnendijk
Landmark historian and expert on Herodotus
University of California, Berkeley (as context in episode)
Episode: Herodotus: The Father of History

Host

Tristan Hughes
Host of The Ancients, with expertise in engaging storytelling and a passion for ancient history.

Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars from 12.4k ratings
  • Great show!

    Nice work people! I don’t know how you can consistently pull off great episodes! Keep it going and thank you!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Redwoodland
    United Statesa month ago
  • A great listen!

    I really like this podcast! Even with 5 stars, I will make a wish that the history hits subscription would not be so difficult to accomplish for the US fans. Regardless, I can hardly believe this team puts out 2 episodes per week with the research needed. Your great work is appreciated in Alaska!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Book of Jobe
    United Statesa month ago
  • Great Ancient History Pods

    Great pods with Dr. Price on Ramses, Dr Gee on the dinosaurs, and Dr DaSilva on the sky disc. Thanks, Tristan!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Friends with Pods
    United Statesa month ago
  • Gee

    National Treasure.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    MaryH1nge
    United Kingdoma month ago
  • Morning routine

    I love this podcast! 💗

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Hasangani
    United Statesa month ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

The podcast is celebrated for its ability to make ancient history accessible and enjoyable for diverse audiences, from serious learners to casual fans.
Many commend the expert guests for their deep insights and knowledge, contributing to educational value.
Listeners appreciate the breadth of topics covered, often highlighting the engaging style of the host.
Some feedback mentions a desire for longer, more in-depth episodes, reflecting the audience's hunger for comprehensive historical discussions.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Britain's First Dog
Q: How did you determine this mandible belonged to a dog and not a wolf?
DNA sequencing from the bone powder showed clear genetic markers that align with domesticated dogs rather than gray wolves, which served as the decisive evidence.
Judas Iscariot
Q: Is Judas a historical figure, or could the betrayal story be a later invention?
The guest argues that Judas is likely a historical figure within the circle of Jesus's followers, but the specific betrayal narrative may have been elaborated or shaped by later gospel writers, with Mark providing a minimal trigger and others embedding theological explanations.
Judas Iscariot
Q: What is the Gospel of Judas and what does it say about Judas?
The guest describes the Gospel of Judas as a non-canonical text from the 2nd century, portraying Judas in a less heroic light and not as a hero, with Jesus sharing secret teachings with Judas.
The Roman Centurion
Q: How could someone become a Centurion?
Common routes included rising from the ranks through opportunities like immunus, tessera, signifer, and optio, or being appointed due to wealth and social status, including connections from equestrian families or the Praetorian Guard; promotions could be leapfrogged, but typically occurred over years.
The Roman Centurion
Q: What was the typical size and hierarchy of a Centurion's unit?
A legions's structure placed six centurions in each cohort, with 60 centurions in a legion; each centurion commanded about 80 men in a century, acting as crucial middle management between the rank-and-file and higher officers.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Listeners per Episode
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Ancients

What is The Ancients about and what kind of topics does it cover?

A captivating exploration of ancient history, this series features rich discussions on various themes and figures from antiquity, aiming to make historical content accessible and engaging. Episodes often include interviews with esteemed historians and archaeologists who provide valuable insights into topics ranging from the achievements of ancient civilizations to pivotal historical events. With a format that emphasizes diverse perspectives and broad geographic coverage, listeners can expect to learn about underrepresented narratives alongside well-known stories in ancient history, making it a noteworthy choice for history enthusiasts.

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How many listeners does The Ancients get?

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Which podcasts are similar to The Ancients?

These podcasts share a similar audience with The Ancients:

1. Gone Medieval
2. Dan Snow's History Hit
3. Not Just the Tudors
4. HistoryExtra podcast
5. After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal

How many episodes of The Ancients are there?

The Ancients launched 6 years ago and published 717 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

How do I contact The Ancients?

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What guests have appeared on The Ancients?

Recent guests on The Ancients include:

1. Barry Cunliffe
2. Paul Middleton
3. Selina Brace
4. William Marsh
5. Dr. Ben Kane
6. Polly Low
7. Dr. Andrew Bayliss
8. Dr. Hannah Cornwell

To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.

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