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
20 snips
Nov 20, 2023 • 38min
390. The Fall of the Aztecs: War to the Death (Part 7)
The spring of 1521 marks a turning point as Hernán Cortés besieges Tenochtitlan, leaving the fate of the Aztecs hanging by a thread. Smallpox devastates the local population, while Cuauhtémoc, the new Aztec emperor, prepares to make a desperate stand. The siege reveals brutal military tactics and psychological warfare, showcasing the tragic clash of two civilizations. Amidst the chaos, cultural losses surface, highlighted by ancient rituals and the haunting defiance of Cuauhtémoc as the Aztec Empire faces its inevitable fall.
50 snips
Nov 16, 2023 • 45min
389. The Fall of the Aztecs: The Night of Tears (Part 6)
In a gripping tale of desperation, Hernán Cortés and his troops make a harrowing nighttime escape from the besieged Tenochtitlan. Surrounded by hostile Aztecs and with resources dwindling, their flight is fraught with danger and chaos. The poignant clash symbolizes the collapse of an empire. Meanwhile, the devastating impact of smallpox begins to unfold, further weakening the Aztec civilization and altering the course of history. This dramatic moment intertwines valor and tragedy in a captivating narrative of conquest.
41 snips
Nov 14, 2023 • 50min
388. The Fall of the Aztecs: The Festival of Blood (Part 5)
In 1520, Hernán Cortés faces a daunting threat as rival conquistador Pánfilo de Narváez hunts him down. Amidst the chaos, he takes Aztec Emperor Montezuma hostage, leading to escalating tension in Tenochtitlan. The imminent Feast of Toshcatl amplifies the impending violence, as mistrust and fear fuel conflict. Cortés’ clever strategies are put to the test against a much larger force, while his relationship with the volatile Pedro de Alvarado adds intrigue. The narrative dives into the darker aspects of conquest, highlighting the tragic turn of events.
85 snips
Nov 13, 2023 • 44min
387. The Fall of the Aztecs: Prisoners of Montezuma (Part 4)
In 1519, Hernán Cortés arrives in Tenochtitlan, sparking a mixture of awe and tension. Montezuma's complex tactics blur the lines between host and captor, raising questions about agency in this power struggle. The chilling Aztec sacrificial rituals showcase a culture caught between reverence and violence. As Cortés navigates this foreign land, dramatic turns and a risky hostage situation set the stage for a historical confrontation that could change everything.
80 snips
Nov 9, 2023 • 49min
386. The Fall of the Aztecs: The City of Gold (Part 3)
Hernán Cortés's audacious decision to seek the Aztec empire sets the stage for a historic clash. The beauty of Iztapalapan captivates the explorers, shadowed by the destruction they will bring. Complex alliances with the Tlaxcalans unfold, while the explorers navigate the advanced civilization of Tenochtitlan. The meeting with Emperor Moctezuma reveals misinterpretations of leadership and culture. Tension mounts as political uncertainties rise, foreshadowing the dramatic consequences of this cultural collision.
76 snips
Nov 7, 2023 • 53min
385. The Fall of the Aztecs: The Woman Who Changed The World (Part 2)
Hernán Cortés embarks on a quest filled with ambition and greed, aiming to conquer the Aztec Empire. The story reveals the complexities of colonialism and the ethical dilemmas faced by the conquistadors. A key player, La Malinche, once a slave, becomes vital as interpreter and advisor, navigating cultural tensions. Her dual legacy as both traitor and survivor emerges amidst the chaos. Cortés's strategies, including his decision to beach his ships, underscore his commitment to conquest, leading toward the inevitable clash with Montezuma.
122 snips
Nov 6, 2023 • 52min
384. The Fall of the Aztecs: The Adventure Begins (Part 1)
The podcast dives into the thrilling and tragic encounter between Hernán Cortés and Emperor Montezuma in 1519, marking a pivotal moment in history. It explores the excitement in Tenochtitlan as the city prepares for its visitors from across the sea. The conversation also dissects the myths and realities behind the fall of the Aztecs, examining contested narratives and differing perspectives. Listeners gain insights into the motivations of young conquistadors and the grim consequences of colonization, all while unraveling the allure of wealth that drove exploration.
55 snips
Nov 2, 2023 • 52min
383. Young Napoleon: The Shadow of the Guillotine (Part 2)
Amidst the chaos of the French Revolution, a young Napoleon rises to prominence, displaying remarkable military brilliance during the Siege of Toulon. His transformation from a proud Corsican to a key player in French identity reveals the struggle of adopting new ideals. His tumultuous romance with Josephine juxtaposes his burgeoning political ambitions, highlighting the intersection of love and power. As he navigates the dark undercurrents of post-revolutionary Paris, his strategies and personal connections shape his path to becoming a pivotal figure in history.
77 snips
Oct 30, 2023 • 46min
382. Young Napoleon: Teenage Revolutionary (Part 1)
Discover the young Napoleon Bonaparte's tumultuous beginnings in Corsica, where his political roots took shape amid unrest. The podcast dives into his identity crisis as he transitioned from a Corsican rebel to a French revolutionary, influenced by famous figures like Pasquale Paoli. Listeners explore his intellectual arrogance and moodiness, while also contemplating his interactions with the opposite sex, blending youthful desire with philosophical ideals. All of this sets the stage for his rise during the chaotic times of the French Revolution.
84 snips
Oct 25, 2023 • 54min
381. Captain Cook: To the Ends of the Earth (Part 2)
Explore Captain Cook's ambitious voyages and his secret mission to find the elusive Terra Australis. Delve into the complexities of his interactions with Tahitians and Aboriginal Australians, marked by moments of diplomacy and violence. Discover the ethical dilemmas faced by Cook and his crew while navigating cultural waters. Listen to intriguing tales about Joseph Banks' experiences, indigenous tattoos, and the whimsical behavior of local fauna. Experience the duality of exploration as admiration meets condescension in this fascinating historical journey.
