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 or start a free trial today on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/therestishistory.
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 or start a free trial today on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/therestishistory.
For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
68 snips
Sep 15, 2024 • 41min
494. Evita: Birth of a Legend (Part 1)
The podcast dives into the intriguing life of Eva Perón, uncovering her challenging childhood and rise to fame. Born out of wedlock, she carried a deep desire for a better life, fueled by her passion for the arts. Her early struggles in Buenos Aires starkly contrasting with her dreams of stardom set the stage for her future political influence. The discussion also highlights her unique ability to shape public sentiment, likening her to other powerful figures and exploring the cultural dynamics that propelled her into the limelight.
13 snips
Sep 11, 2024 • 1h 1min
493. Lee Miller: Exposing the Horrors of World War Two
Explore the extraordinary life of Lee Miller, a daring photographer who ventured into World War II to reveal its harsh realities. Discover her transition from a glamorous life in 1920s Paris to the grime of the battlefield as a war correspondent. Uncover her nuanced relationship with art, surrealism, and the complexities of gender in the male-dominated field. With a new film featuring Kate Winslet on the horizon, delve into her captivating journey, filled with humor, trauma, and resilience, while uncovering the lasting impact of her haunting images.
31 snips
Sep 9, 2024 • 52min
492. The War on Beards: From Peter the Great to John Lennon (Part 2)
Discover the wild history of beards in Europe, from their praise as symbols of masculinity to the ridicule that led to clean-shaven modernity. Explore why Peter the Great taxed beards, the rise of the Victorian beard during the Crimean War, and how cultural shifts influenced famous faces like The Beatles. Delve into the societal links between facial hair and identity, with delightful anecdotes and humorous insights sprinkled throughout. It’s a journey through time that's anything but hair-raising!
46 snips
Sep 8, 2024 • 46min
491. History's Greatest Beards: From Egyptian Queens to Medieval Conquerors (Part 1)
Beards have played a fascinating role in history, symbolizing masculinity and identity. From Marcus Aurelius to Jesus, facial hair often marked societal perceptions of power and authority. The cultural significance of beards evolved through different civilizations, with ancient Egyptians and Romans showcasing contrasting grooming practices. Surprisingly, Alexander the Great's clean-shaven look sparked debates on masculinity among Romans. The podcast humorously explores how beards shaped norms and identity, promising to unravel more intriguing tales of facial hair in the future.
38 snips
Sep 4, 2024 • 55min
490. Hundred Years' War: England Triumphant (Part 4)
The aftermath of the Battle of Agincourt reveals both devastating losses for France and the emerging complexities of English victory. Henry V’s mixed emotions highlight the grim realities of war amidst tales of chivalry and divine favor. Political chaos in France creates a landscape ripe for intrigue, while Henry's military strategies in Normandy underscore his ambitions. The rise of this formidable king raises questions about his legacy and the heavy expectations placed on medieval rulers.
48 snips
Sep 1, 2024 • 54min
489. Hundred Years' War: Bloodbath at Agincourt (Part 3)
Explore the legendary Battle of Agincourt, where the famed English archers turned the tide against overwhelming odds. Discover how Shakespeare's portrayal of Henry V fueled the English spirit and the psychological tactics used in warfare. Delve into the chaos of the battlefield, where muddy conditions made victory a gritty struggle. A debate unfolds around troop numbers, challenging historical narratives, while the aftermath reveals the haunting consequences of this iconic clash. Prepare for a riveting look at a pivotal moment in history!
41 snips
Aug 28, 2024 • 52min
488. Hundred Years' War: The Road to Agincourt (Part 2)
In this gripping discussion, listeners explore King Henry V's audacious campaign against France in 1415. The siege of Harfleur reveals brutal tactics and the unexpected hardships faced by English forces. As illness and supply issues threaten their advance, Henry makes bold decisions that lead to a dramatic march across hostile territory. Tension mounts as they approach the looming threat of a massive French army, highlighting both strategic challenges and the heroic spirit of Henry’s troops. Prepare for the climactic Battle of Agincourt!
68 snips
Aug 25, 2024 • 57min
487. Hundred Years' War: Henry V’s Invasion of France (Part 1)
Dive into the dramatic backdrop of Henry V's 1415 invasion of France, highlighting the intense siege of Harfleur and the chaos of a fractured French monarchy. Explore how Shakespeare immortalized Henry's call to arms and shaped his heroic legacy. Unpack the turbulent mental state of King Charles VI and the fierce rivalries between factions like the Armagnacs and Burgundians. As Henry V meticulously plans his strategy, tensions rise amidst warfare and ambition, setting the stage for a historical clash that would alter the course of the Hundred Years' War.
39 snips
Aug 21, 2024 • 57min
486. Henry IV: Warrior Princes and Fat Knights (Part 2)
In 1403, King Henry IV confronts betrayal from his former friend, Hotspur, while simultaneously battling a Welsh uprising. The rise of Prince Hal and his evolution from a reckless youth to a determined leader is explored, particularly during the intense Battle of Shrewsbury. The carnage of the battle highlights Henry IV's injuries and the brutal reality of war. Additionally, the complexities of governance are examined, including the role of comedic figure Sir John Falstaff and the rise of dissent among the Lollards, challenging the established Church.
69 snips
Aug 18, 2024 • 1h 4min
485. Henry IV: The Usurper King (Part 1)
Delve into the tumultuous reign of Henry IV, a king who rose from admiration to suspicion after usurping the throne. Explore his intense rivalry with Richard II and how he navigated a divided nation amidst brewing rebellions. Discover the dramatic dynamics between Prince Hal and Hotspur, and how Welsh resistance under Owen Glendower played a significant role. The podcast also reflects on the historical and literary implications of betrayal and strategy during Henry's reign, and the complexity of leadership in a time of upheaval.
