The Rest Is History
Goalhanger
Take a deep dive into History’s biggest moments with Tom Holland & Dominic Sandbrook.
Explore the stories of History’s most brutal rulers, deadly battles, and world-changing events. From the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, the Nazi conquest of Europe, and Hitler’s evil master plan for world domination, to the French Revolution, the sinking of the Titanic, or the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, Tom and Dominic bring the past to life with gripping storytelling and expert analysis, as they unpack the high-drama moments that shaped our world.
Join The Rest Is History Club: Unlock the full experience of the show – with exclusive bonus episodes, ad-free listening, early access to every series and live show tickets, a members-only newsletter, discounted books from the show, and access to our private Discord chatroom. Sign up directly at therestishistory.com.
For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com.
Explore the stories of History’s most brutal rulers, deadly battles, and world-changing events. From the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, the Nazi conquest of Europe, and Hitler’s evil master plan for world domination, to the French Revolution, the sinking of the Titanic, or the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, Tom and Dominic bring the past to life with gripping storytelling and expert analysis, as they unpack the high-drama moments that shaped our world.
Join The Rest Is History Club: Unlock the full experience of the show – with exclusive bonus episodes, ad-free listening, early access to every series and live show tickets, a members-only newsletter, discounted books from the show, and access to our private Discord chatroom. Sign up directly at therestishistory.com.
For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
53 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 1h 7min
616. Elizabeth I: The Fall of the Axe (Part 1)
Explore the tumultuous early life of Elizabeth I, shaped by her father's notorious reign and her mother's tragic execution. Discover the Tudor court's obsession with male heirs and how Anne Boleyn's boldness changed history forever. The hosts dive into Anne's rise, from captivating Henry VIII to her ultimate downfall, questioning the fairness of her trial and execution. Appreciate the intricate legacies that defined Elizabeth's path to becoming one of Britain's most iconic monarchs.
69 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 34min
RIHC: Disney's Legacy, with Bob Iger
Join Bob Iger, the longtime CEO of The Walt Disney Company, as he reflects on Walt Disney's enduring legacy and the magic of Disneyland. He shares insights on the importance of storytelling at Disney and his thoughts on future challenges and innovations facing the company. Bob also reveals his dream dinner guest from history, Walt Disney himself, and discusses the cultural power of Disney stories. Explore how Disney balances nostalgia with new experiences, all while enhancing its global appeal!
86 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 1h 22min
615. Disneyland: The Modern American Utopia
Discover why Disneyland is hailed as an architectural marvel and cultural beacon of the Cold War. Explore how WWII reshaped Disney's creative direction, and delve into Walt's passion for trains that inspired the park's design. Uncover the origins of iconic rides, from carousels to roller coasters, and the influences of historical pleasure gardens. Reflect on the themes of patriotism and consumerism within Disneyland, and analyze its lasting impact on urban planning and theme park design.
150 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 1h 10min
614. Walt Disney: The Great American Storyteller
Discover the fascinating story of Walt Disney, a pivotal figure who shaped modern American culture. Explore his groundbreaking innovations in animation, starting with classics like Steamboat Willie. Learn about the risky production of Snow White, initially dubbed Disney's Folly, which turned into a global success. Uncover the roots of his creativity from his Midwestern upbringing and his wartime experiences that fueled his Hollywood dreams. Delve into Mickey Mouse's rise, the animator strike, and Disney's complex legacy, from criticism to his monumental impact on entertainment.
80 snips
Oct 31, 2025 • 10min
Spartacus and Gladiators, with Mary Beard
Join renowned classicist Mary Beard as she unpacks the gripping tale of Spartacus, the legendary gladiator and rebel. She delves into the origins of gladiatorial combat and the reasons behind our enduring fascination with these fierce fighters. Beard shares insights into Spartacus's Thracian roots and his transformation from a slave to a leader of a monumental revolt. The discussion also touches on how the Romans uniquely explored themes of violence and sexuality, making it clear why gladiators continue to captivate our imagination today.
77 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 1h 10min
613. Nelson: Glory at Trafalgar (Part 6)
Explore the thrilling lead-up to the Battle of Trafalgar, where British naval tactics clashed against the French fleet. Feel the tension as Nelson's ships prepared for confrontation, with sailors sharing their last meals and prayers. Witness the chaos of naval combat as the Victory faced multiple enemy ships, culminating in Nelson's tragic wounding and his final moments of triumph and sacrifice. Discover how his legacy transformed him into a national icon, shaping British history and maritime legacy for generations to come.
149 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 1h 2min
612. Nelson: The Final Showdown (Part 5)
Journey back to the high seas as Nelson faces Britain’s fears of a Napoleonic invasion. Discover his emotional farewells, celebrity status, and crucial meetings with government leaders. Delve into Nelson's audacious battle plans and his doctrine of annihilation against the combined fleets. As tension mounts, his leadership culture and preparedness strategies unfold. The stakes are high, with the dawn sighting of the enemy fleet looming large—will Nelson's vision lead to triumph or disaster at Trafalgar?
64 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 11min
Julius Caesar, with Mary Beard
In this fascinating discussion, renowned classicist Mary Beard delves into the life of Julius Caesar, comparing him to Alexander the Great. She explains how Caesar's extensive writings paint a vivid picture of his time. Mary also highlights the tensions between Rome's republican ideals and the burgeoning imperial reality. The conversation touches on Caesar's rise to power, his complex relationship with Cleopatra, and the personal armies that led to civil war. Mary encapsulates how Caesar's ambition ultimately paved the way for his tragic downfall.
114 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 1h 9min
611. Nelson: Bonaparte Prepares to Strike (Part 4)
Explore the tension in Britain as Napoleon plans an invasion while Nelson's daring raids at Boulogne reveal the high cost of war. Delve into Nelson's colorful personal life with Emma Hamilton amid societal scandal and financial strains. Witness how a fragile peace treaty crumbles and Britain gears up for another conflict. Nelson rises to fame with a national tour, all while navigating the treacherous waters of politics and personal loss. As tensions escalate, fate looms large on the horizon, setting the stage for epic battles ahead.
77 snips
Oct 19, 2025 • 1h 7min
610. Nelson: The Battle of Copenhagen (Part 3)
The dramatic Battle of Copenhagen unfolds as Horatio Nelson faces the formidable Danish fleet. Amid tactical challenges and a daring plan, his fleet navigates into the harbor under tense circumstances. The podcast delves into Nelson's bold decision to ignore an order to retreat, showcasing his commitment to victory even amidst heavy casualties. It captures the emotional aftermath as Nelson seeks to minimize bloodshed, ultimately leading to a ceasefire. Personal reflections on his life and public acclaim add depth to this tale of naval valor and political intrigue.
