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
208 snips
Dec 11, 2025 • 1h 7min
625. Jack The Ripper: Horror in Whitechapel (Part 2)
Dive into the chilling case of Jack the Ripper as the hosts explore his second victim's brutal murder and the ensuing police investigation. Discover how sensationalized press coverage fueled public hysteria and shaped the narrative around the infamous killer. Unravel the socio-economic conditions of Victorian Whitechapel, and learn about the pivotal role of key figures like Inspector Abberline. The exploration includes details of the 'From Hell' letter, the Ripper's audacious methods, and the growing atmosphere of fear that consumed the East End.
79 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 55min
The Beatles: The British Invasion, with Conan O’Brien (Part 2)
Conan O’Brien, comedian and former late-night TV host, joins Tom to explore the turbulent final years of the Beatles. They delve into John Lennon’s controversial 'more popular than Jesus' remark and the intense backlash that followed. The discussion shifts to the band's innovative studio work, reflecting on their groundbreaking albums like *Sgt. Pepper*. Conan also shares insights into the impact of Brian Epstein's death and the evolution of tensions within the group, ultimately celebrating the enduring legacy of the Beatles with *Abbey Road*.
316 snips
Dec 8, 2025 • 1h 4min
624. Jack The Ripper: History’s Darkest Mystery (Part 1)
Delve into the chilling legacy of Jack the Ripper, exploring whether he was history's first serial killer. The hosts discuss the notorious 'Dear Boss' letter, the horrifying double murder events, and the public's ghostly perceptions of the killer. They reveal how Victorian anxieties shaped responses to the crimes and the obsession with Ripperology in popular culture. Victims are humanized as the narrative shifts from sensationalism to their overlooked lives, culminating in the grim discovery of Mary Ann Nichols' body, marking the start of a reign of terror.
261 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 1h 12min
623. The Nazis at War: Churchill’s Finest Hour (Part 4)
Delve into the intense struggle between Hitler's Germany and Britain during World War II. Explore Churchill's powerful speeches and the significance of British survival. Discover Hitler's ambivalence toward Britain and the potential peace terms he considered. Learn about the pivotal Battle of Britain and the critical advantages that tipped the scale in favor of the RAF. As tensions escalate, witness how Operation Sea Lion falters and the shift to the Blitz unfolds, setting the stage for future conflicts.
368 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 51min
The Beatles: The Band that Changed the World, with Conan O’Brien (Part 1)
Join comedian Conan O’Brien as he delves into the story of the Beatles, sharing personal anecdotes from his encounters with George, Paul, and Ringo. Explore how four Liverpool teens transformed music and culture, breaking norms with innovative songwriting and style. Discover the band's explosive rise to fame alongside the civil rights movements, and hear about their impactful presence in 1960s America, including the infamous 'More Popular than Jesus' controversy. Get ready for an insightful journey through the Beatles' revolutionary legacy!
324 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.
387 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.
354 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.
204 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!
182 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.
