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
65 snips
Feb 16, 2024 • 49min
420. Britain in 1974: Thatcher Enters the Ring (Part 4)
The Guildford Pub Bombings of 1974 cast a dark shadow over Britain, highlighting the political turmoil and crisis of the time. Amidst chaos, Labour's Harold Wilson narrowly retained the prime minister position, but doubts lingered about his ability to steer the nation. Meanwhile, Margaret Thatcher's rise within the Conservative Party began to reshape the political landscape. The aftermath of terrorism and economic decline exacerbated societal fears, setting the stage for a tumultuous era. Humor and tragedy intertwine in this gripping exploration of a pivotal year.
83 snips
Feb 15, 2024 • 1h 3min
419. Britain in 1974: Countdown to a Coup (Part 3)
Harold Wilson's return to power in 1974 Britain unfolds against a backdrop of chaos and strikes. The nation grapples with high inflation, student activism, and conflict with trade unions. Wilson's relationship with his aide adds a personal layer to the political drama, as rumors of his KGB ties swirl. As economic divides deepen, fears of a right-wing coup loom large. Tensions escalate in Northern Ireland, pushing the country to the brink while the government remains caught in a whirlwind of paranoia and public unrest.
42 snips
Feb 13, 2024 • 49min
418. Britain in 1974: The Crisis Election (Part 2)
The podcast dives into the chaos of Britain's 1974 election amid an IRA attack that shocked the nation. It examines the political strategies of Edward Heath and Harold Wilson, showcasing their contrasting approaches. The discussion highlights internal divisions within the Labour Party and the rise of the Liberal Party. Personal struggles of political leaders following the tumult are also explored, underscoring the emotional impact of their defeat. The atmosphere is rife with public discontent and fears of losing democratic identity.
79 snips
Feb 12, 2024 • 58min
417. Britain in 1974: State of Emergency (Part 1)
Britain in 1974 faced monumental chaos, with the government grappling against rising inflation and labor unrest. The threat of miners' strikes loomed as tensions escalated. Key political figures like Harold Wilson and Edward Heath navigated a tumultuous landscape marked by strikes and economic struggles. The Yom Kippur War exacerbated energy prices and further complicated the crisis. Amidst the turmoil, a pivotal meeting with miners showcased the dissatisfaction brewing among the working class, setting the stage for significant political shifts.
34 snips
Feb 8, 2024 • 53min
416. The Canterbury Tales (Part 4)
Dive into the intriguing world of Geoffrey Chaucer and his masterpiece, 'The Canterbury Tales'. Explore how his life during the Hundred Years’ War and the Black Death shaped his writing. Discover the joy of pilgrimage amidst a post-plague yearning for connection, and how characters from his tales reflect diverse societal perspectives. Uncover feminist themes through the Wife of Bath and learn about Chaucer's connections to historical figures, all while appreciating his lasting impact on English literature.
26 snips
Feb 5, 2024 • 54min
415. The Murder of Richard II (Part 3)
Dive into the dramatic reign of Richard II, who ascended to the throne at just ten. Explore the Peasants' Revolt and Richard’s autocratic rule that alienated his subjects. Discover how his fashion choices and extravagant lifestyle were more than mere extravagance—they were strategic tools in royal politics. The conversation also reveals the intricate political dynamics leading to his deposition and tragic demise, emphasizing the enduring consequences for the English monarchy and themes of power and legitimacy.
56 snips
Feb 1, 2024 • 51min
414. The Peasants’ Revolt: London’s Burning (Part 2)
On June 13, 1381, rebel leader Wat Tyler and his army stormed London, shaking the foundations of power. The young King Richard II faced a desperate choice as demands for the abolition of serfdom echoed through the city. Tensions escalated as the rebels attacked royal symbols and engaged in fierce negotiations. The aftermath revealed chaotic confrontations and the complexities of the uprising's legacy on governance and class. The discussion also connects historical events to modern political ideologies, hinting at their continued relevance today.
53 snips
Jan 29, 2024 • 52min
413. The Peasants' Revolt: England Erupts (Part 1)
In late 14th-century England, social unrest simmers as peasants face skyrocketing poll taxes and a distrustful nobility. Tensions ignite into the Peasants' Revolt, led by the charismatic Wat Tyler, marking a pivotal moment for grassroots activism. John Ball's radical rhetoric galvanizes support, blending class struggle and ideological shifts. Vivid accounts of violent protests and strategic rallies reveal a society on the brink, as rebels aim to challenge the oppressive elite and redefine their place in history.
144 snips
Jan 25, 2024 • 53min
412. Romans in Space: Star Wars, Dune and Beyond...
Explore how 'Star Wars' mirrors the fall of republics in both ancient Rome and contemporary culture. Discover the parallels between Emperor Palpatine and historical tyrants, and how ‘Dune’ reflects Islamic history. The conversation dives into how these sci-fi classics use Roman imagery and themes to grapple with power, ambition, and decay. From classic hero journeys to the eerie representations of totalitarianism, the discussion unveils how popular narratives draw deeply from historical lessons.
25 snips
Jan 22, 2024 • 48min
411. The Man in the Iron Mask
Dive into the gripping enigma of the Man in the Iron Mask, a prisoner cloaked in secrecy during Louis XIV's reign. Explore wild theories about his identity, from an English spy to a possible twin brother of the king. Unravel the grandeur and intrigue of Versailles, the heart of absolute monarchy, while navigating the shadows cast by d'Artagnan and philosophical reflections from Voltaire. The rich tapestry of history reveals a world where power dynamics and mystique intertwine, leaving listeners to ponder the truth behind the mask.
