Do not make excuses for him hitting you. When a moment gets heated, hitting someone is not how decent people react.
You absolutely need to visit a therapist because it is clear that he is psychologically manipulating you.
And to add to what others are saying – not only will he do it again, but he will also start escalating the violence eventually. No, he will not change and no, you most certainly cannot change him.
Do not surrender your financial independence at any cost. Document every instance of abuse, divorce his ass and get the hell out.