Mike Loades

A look at some of the most important, innovative and powerful weapons of all time. Through unique experiments run by weapons specialists, explore how and why these weapons work and the role each one has played in shaping the world we know today.

Mike Loades, a professional film fight coordinator and medieval weapons trainer explores the actual history and effectiveness of the ancient medieval weapons and armor of medieval Britain. Through historical examinations, scientific experiments of the items in question and wargaming demonstrations with volunteers, Loades illustrates the nature of the weapons and armor that played significant roles in the history of Britain.

It's the most extraordinary feat of engineering in history, and one of the most iconic man-made structures on the planet - the Great Wall of China, stretching thousands of miles across barren deserts and treacherous mountains before finally plunging into the sea. But why did the Chinese go to such staggering lengths to build it, and what are the secrets that have enabled it to survive for over 2,000 years? Now, ground breaking science is re-writing its complex history and de-coding its mysteries to reveal that there is much more to the Great Wall than just bricks and mortar. Cutting edge chemistry reveals that the secret to the Great Wall's remarkable strength is a simple ingredient found in every kitchen, and a new survey also determines that its length is truly amazing, as we finally solve the enigma at the heart of the world's greatest mega-structure.

In this two-hour H2 special, historian and weapons expert Mike Loades goes medieval diving deep into the world of the Middle Ages. From the 5th to the 15th centuries, Mike battles the realities vs. the myths of this extraordinary time crusading for the core of real life while delivering fun-filled facts. From living, working and fighting to how to keep a knight's armor shiny using a vigorous rub of sand, vinegar and urine, Going Medieval is an expert account of life during medieval times.

Follow the close analysis of an ancient fight master's manuscript depicting combat techniques and devices used over 500 years ago.

Though the end of the United States Civil War gave the nation much to celebrate, there were nonetheless those unpleased with the North's victory, the key example, perhaps, being John Wilkes Booth. Eager to declare one definitive "victory" for the South, Booth shot and killed President Abraham Lincoln in front of thousands of witnesses. However, despite one of the largest manhunts in US history, Booth was able to evade capture for nearly two weeks. This program offers an in-depth look at exactly how Booth nearly escaped successfully after assassinating the President of the United States.

In this new History Hit series Mike Loades embarks on a hands-on exploration into the amazing history of dogs - from giant Newfoundlands to skilled sheep dogs, delightful chamber dogs to resilient carriage dogs. It’s a fascinating story of how humans and dogs have lived and worked together for thousands of years - and in each period certain dogs stand out.