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
90 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.
87 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.
132 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.
66 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.
92 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.
97 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.
86 snips
Oct 22, 2023 • 50min
380. Captain Cook: History’s Greatest Explorer (Part 1)
Explore the life of James Cook, the greatest sea explorer, starting from his humble Yorkshire beginnings. Discover how he navigated the treacherous seas with a crew that included an unusual assortment of animals. Delve into his complex legacy, addressing the controversial nature of his discoveries in Australia. Uncover the motivations behind Cook's voyages, the allure of the mythical Terra Australis, and how his views on indigenous cultures evolved. This fascinating journey opens up dialogues on exploration and its implications.
46 snips
Oct 18, 2023 • 49min
379. Baghdad: The Arabian Nights (Part 4)
Explore the mysterious allure of Baghdad, a historical hub during the Islamic Golden Age. Delve into tales from the Arabian Nights, featuring characters like Aladdin and Sinbad. Discover the quirky connection between pigeon racing and religious law. Uncover how the House of Wisdom translated ancient texts, influencing both Islamic and Western thought. Laugh as the darker sides of beloved stories get revealed, showcasing the rich tapestry of crime and society woven into these timeless tales.
52 snips
Oct 15, 2023 • 51min
378. Baghdad: The Golden Age (Part 3)
Discover the splendor of Baghdad during its golden age under Caliph Harun al-Rashid. The city thrived as a global melting pot, rich in diverse cultures and luxury. Delve into the exciting lives of influential figures, from power struggles in the caliphate to the vital roles of remarkable women. Learn about the Barmakid family's impact and the breathtaking advancements in cuisine, art, and trade. Amidst this vibrant atmosphere, explore the tensions and social dynamics that shaped a city still celebrated for its historical significance.
59 snips
Oct 11, 2023 • 45min
377. Baghdad: Crossroads of the Universe (Part 2)
Baghdad's transformation from a Christian village to a bustling cosmopolis is a highlight, showcasing its ambitious architecture and grandeur under Caliph Al-Mansur. The role of Abu Muslim in establishing the Abbasid dynasty is fascinating, revealing the blend of Islamic and Persian traditions. The city’s importance as a trade hub is explored, emphasizing its connections between cultures. The podcast also delves into the turbulent history of the Umayyad Caliphate and the cultural fusion in Khorasan, setting the backdrop for Baghdad's rise as a center of knowledge and power.
