Game of Thrones is, as you've definitely worked out by now, based heavily on the history of the Wars of the Roses. Famous for high levels of internecine violence and bloody warfare, Game of Thrones is deeply rooted in historical parallels. However, as Dan Jones (not Snow) explains to Dan (not Jon) Snow, George R. R. Martin didn't just draw inspiration from the Wars of the Roses, but from all manner of historical circumstances and people.

From mass murders in castles in Edinburgh, to mercenary companies, to Cixi, the Chinese Dowager Empress, Martin drew inspiration from all periods of history, and both Dans walk us through the many comparisons and similarities.

For ad free versions of our entire podcast archive and hundreds of hours of history documentaries, interviews and films, signup to History Hit TV. Use code 'pod3' at checkout. 

Producer: Peter Curry

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.