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
570 snips
Jul 20, 2025 • 55min
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.
132 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 58min
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.
149 snips
Jul 13, 2025 • 1h 1min
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.
94 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 45min
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.
161 snips
Jul 6, 2025 • 48min
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.
140 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 1h 6min
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.
178 snips
Jun 29, 2025 • 58min
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.
143 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 1h 4min
577. The Irish War of Independence: The Violence Begins (Part 2)
In this discussion, Paul Rouse, a historian from University College Dublin, sheds light on the Irish War of Independence. He explores Sinn Féin's strategic moves post-1917, assessing the IRA's tactics and the sectarian complexities within their ranks. Rouse highlights the unique aspects of Ireland's struggle compared to other post-war revolutions and the rise of Michael Collins in Irish politics. The conversation also delves into the significant roles women played and the broader implications of independence on Irish identity.
442 snips
Jun 22, 2025 • 1h 10min
576. The Irish War of Independence: Rise of the IRA (Part 1)
Paul Rouse, a history professor at University College Dublin, joins the discussion to illuminate the origins of the Irish War of Independence. They delve into the impact of the 1916 Easter Rising and the shift in Irish nationalism toward independence. Rouse highlights the significant role of Thomas Ashe and analyzes the transformation of Sinn Féin from monarchists to revolutionaries. The conversation also covers Éamon de Valera's pivotal influence on Irish politics, setting the stage for a tumultuous period marked by intense political struggle.
197 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 1h 9min
575. The Medici: The Bonfire of the Vanities (Part 4)
After Lorenzo the Magnificent's death, Florence faces political turmoil and an impending French invasion. The rise of the charismatic priest Savonarola captivates the citizens, leading to a fierce moral reform and a direct clash with the Medici family. As Savonarola pushes for a 'republic of virtue,' tensions escalate, revealing the city's struggles between indulgence and morality. The narrative culminates in Savonarola's tragic downfall, exploring the chaotic repercussions of his regime on Florence's identity and the storied legacy of the Medici.
