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
60 snips
Dec 1, 2025 • 1h 8min
622. The Nazis at War: The Fall of France (Part 3)
Explore the dramatic events of the Battle of Dunkirk as the Allies faced imminent defeat. Discover Churchill’s steadfast decision to evacuate and the surprising role of civilian boats in Operation Dynamo. Unpack the German halt order that allowed crucial breathing space for the Allied forces. The episode also dives into the challenges faced by both the Luftwaffe and RAF. Experience the emotional and morale-boosting impact of Dunkirk on Britain and witness the fallout in France as the government grapples with impending collapse.
210 snips
Nov 27, 2025 • 1h 7min
621. The Nazis at War: Blitzkrieg (Part 2)
Explore the Nazis' rapid advance in Norway and Denmark as Hitler sought to secure vital resources. The podcast delves into Churchill's first broadcast and the Allies' frustrated attempts to intervene. Learn about the chaotic response of Norway's citizens and the swift capitulation of Denmark. The hosts dissect the strategic miscalculations of the Allies and reveal how German tactics outsmarted their opponents. The discussion culminates in a reflection on Hitler's successful maneuvers that would lead to greater conflict.
244 snips
Nov 24, 2025 • 1h 12min
620. The Nazis at War: Hitler Strikes West (Part 1)
Explore Adolf Hitler's aggressive political maneuvers following the invasion of Poland. Delve into the Allies' hesitations and fears that led to inaction. Discover the intricacies of Nazi propaganda and the strategic plans that dictated the timing of attacks. Learn about the dramatic assassination attempts against Hitler and the resulting tensions within Germany. Uncover the chilling plans for spring campaigns and the darker domestic policies in occupied territories. A gripping exploration of the pivotal moments that shaped the early war years.
144 snips
Nov 20, 2025 • 1h 9min
619. Elizabeth I: The Virgin Queen (Part 4)
Discover the dramatic rise of Elizabeth I as she navigates a perilous path to the throne. Learn about her masterful coronation, complete with symbolic gestures and public pageantry. Delve into her political strategy, including her fraught relationship with marriage and her refusal to cede power. Uncover the tensions with rival Mary, Queen of Scots, and how these dynamics shaped England's geopolitical landscape. From key advisor William Cecil's consolidation of power to Elizabeth's deft use of marriage as a diplomatic tool, the intrigue is palpable!
142 snips
Nov 17, 2025 • 1h 12min
618. Elizabeth I: The Shadow of the Tower (Part 3)
Explore the gripping tales of Elizabeth I's dangerous youth as she navigates the treacherous waters of Tudor politics. Discover why Edward VI chose Jane Grey over his half-sisters and how Elizabeth survived Bloody Mary’s brutal regime. Delve into the psychological pressure Elizabeth faced as she spent time in the Tower of London, fearing a fate like her mother’s. Witness her shrewd maneuvers and rising strength as she prepared for the throne, setting the stage for a formidable reign.
179 snips
Nov 13, 2025 • 1h 2min
617. Elizabeth I: Anne Boleyn's Bastard (Part 2)
The tumultuous childhood of Elizabeth I unfolds, revealing her descent from adored princess to outcast. Explore her complex relationships with her father Henry VIII and his wives, particularly Jane Seymour's influence. Discover the impact of her education under Kate Champernowne and Catherine Parr's mentorship. Witness the scandal and danger surrounding Thomas Seymour's inappropriate advances. Finally, delve into Elizabeth's political cunning as she navigated her precarious position during her half-brother Edward's reign and the threat from Mary.
249 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 1h 8min
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.
86 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!
134 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 1h 23min
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.
188 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.
