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.The Rest Is History Club: Become a member for exclusive bonus episodes, early access to full series and live show tickets, ad-free listening, our exclusive weekly newsletter, discount book prices on titles mentioned on the show, and our members’ chatroom on Discord. Just head to therestishistory.com to sign up, or start a free trial today on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/therestishistory.For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
15 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 56min
587. Mary, Queen of Scots: Murder Most Foul (Part 4)
Dive into the tumultuous life of Mary, Queen of Scots, as her second marriage to Lord Darnley threatens civil war. Explore her bold confrontations with Elizabeth I and the complex loyalties surrounding her. Discover the volatile role of Lord Bothwell and the shocking betrayal within her court that led to David Rizzio's assassination. Amidst personal strife and looming danger, Mary leads troops into battle while navigating the intense political landscape of Scotland. Will her heir's birth bring hope or further chaos?
57 snips
Jul 27, 2025 • 1h 6min
586. Mary, Queen of Scots: The Battle for Scotland (Part 3)
Mary, Queen of Scots, returned to a politically charged Scotland only to face deep suspicion and rivalry. Her confrontational meeting with Protestant leader John Knox highlights the tensions of her Catholic roots in a Protestant landscape. As she navigated her choices and relationships, particularly with her second husband Darnley, intrigue and chaos loomed. The dynamic rivalry with Elizabeth I further complicated her reign, showcasing the precarious balance of power among the Scottish and English nobility.
153 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 1h 3min
585. Mary, Queen of Scots: The Royal Rivals (Part 2)
Dive into the lavish life of Mary, Queen of Scots, as she navigates the treacherous French court. Discover the ambitious plans of her mother, Mary of Guise, and the intricacies of her marriage that entangled her with royal power. Experience her rivalry with the formidable Elizabeth I and the blow of becoming unexpectedly widowed. Learn about the religious turmoil shaking Scotland and how it shaped a queen's destiny amidst alliances, betrayals, and the struggle for authority in a rapidly changing world.
464 snips
Jul 20, 2025 • 57min
584. Mary, Queen of Scots: Birth of a Legend (Part 1)
Discover the fascinating early life of Mary, Queen of Scots, born amidst political and religious turmoil. Learn how she became a queen at just a week old, and betrothed by age five, setting the stage for her legendary status. Explore the dangers faced by Scottish monarchs in the 16th century and the complexities of her rivalry with Elizabeth I. Delve into the challenges of her reign and the intricate political landscape, with a special focus on her mother's strategies to secure powerful alliances. This is a captivating tale of ambition, struggle, and legacy.
81 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 60min
583. The Lion, the Priest and the Parlourmaids: A 1930s Sex Scandal
Dive into the scandalous life of Harold Davidson, the "Prostitutes' Padre," whose infatuation with young girls led to sensational headlines and a bizarre trial. Discover his eccentric journey, from being defrocked to his infamous public antics, including displaying himself in a barrel at Blackpool. The discussion also highlights the absurdities of 1930s showbiz and the complexities of morality, offering a humorous and dark glimpse into the life of a clergyman caught in a whirlwind of scandal and celebrity.
127 snips
Jul 13, 2025 • 1h 3min
582. The Body in the Woods: A Medieval Murder Mystery
A gruesome murder of a boy in 12th century Norwich sparks chilling reflections on societal prejudice. The story unfolds with accusations against the local Jewish community, leading to widespread persecution and the terrifying legacy of blood libel. The hosts explore the socio-political tensions of the time, intertwining historical horror with tales from notable manuscript collections. Through dramatic trials and distorted narratives, they reveal deep-seated biases and the tragic consequences of scapegoating, echoing across centuries.
71 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 47min
581. The Irish Civil War: The Killing of Michael Collins (Part 2)
In this engaging discussion, journalist Ronan McGreevy, a chronicler of Irish history, dives into the tumultuous events surrounding the Irish Civil War. He illuminates the chaos of the Battle of the Four Courts and the polarized reactions to the Anglo-Irish Treaty. The podcast also explores Michael Collins' tragic assassination and its critical implications for Ireland's future. McGreevy highlights the deep ideological rifts within the IRA and reflects on how Collins' legacy influences contemporary Irish politics and society.
138 snips
Jul 6, 2025 • 50min
580. The Irish Civil War: The Assassination of Sir Henry Wilson (Part 1)
Historian Ronan McGreevy, author of 'Great Hatred,' dives into the assassination of Sir Henry Wilson, a pivotal event in the Irish Civil War. Discussing Wilson’s controversial legacy, McGreevy reveals how his murder by Irish nationalists sparked widespread turmoil and led to a deep divide in Ireland. The conversation explores Wilson's views on Home Rule, the perception of his death as similar to Archduke Ferdinand's, and how his assassination shifted the course of Irish independence. McGreevy's insights illuminate the complexities of identity and politics during this tumultuous period.
121 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 1h 7min
579. The Irish War of Independence: Showdown in London (Part 4)
Unpack the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921 and its intricate negotiations involving key figures like Michael Collins and Éamon de Valera. Discover the tensions that arose from this controversial agreement and its massive impact on Ireland's future. Delve into the unique dynamics of Irish nationalism and the challenges faced by negotiators under immense pressure. Explore how these historical events parallel modern political issues, setting the stage for Ireland's tumultuous journey ahead.
147 snips
Jun 29, 2025 • 60min
578. The Irish War of Independence: Bloody Sunday (Part 3)
In this discussion, historian Paul Rouse from University College Dublin, an expert on Irish sports and nationalism, sheds light on the tragic events of Bloody Sunday, November 21, 1920. He explores the violent clash initiated by the IRA against British agents, which escalated into a chaotic gunfire at Croke Park. Rouse examines the profound psychological impact on victims' families and how this pivotal day shifted public opinion against the British government, emphasizing its lasting legacy on Ireland's path to independence.
