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
94 snips
Jul 17, 2023 • 41min
351: Amsterdam: Miracles, Money, and Mud (Part 1)
Discover how Amsterdam transformed from a humble fishing community to the birthplace of modern capitalism. The city’s historical significance shines through its role in the Reformation and its embrace of diverse beliefs. Uncover the story behind the 'Miracle of Amsterdam' and the intriguing rise of tulip mania, a cautionary tale of speculation. The hosts share insights on exploring modern-day Amsterdam while traversing its rich cultural heritage, offering a blend of historical analysis and contemporary travel tips.
101 snips
Jul 13, 2023 • 58min
350: The Triumph of George Washington (Part 4)
Adam Smith, a Professor of American History at the University of Oxford and an expert on the American Revolution, shares insights on the dramatic conclusion of the war. He discusses the pivotal surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown and the treaty that followed, addressing its immediate and long-term consequences. The conversation also dives into the complexities of Washington's legacy, examining the moral ambiguities of his leadership and his ties to slavery, while questioning the narratives that shape American identity today.
97 snips
Jul 10, 2023 • 48min
349: The Birth of the United States (Part 3)
In this engaging discussion, historian Adam Smith, an expert on the American Revolution, examines the pivotal moments of July 1776. He highlights the significance of the Declaration of Independence and the shift in focus from Parliament to King George III as the main adversary. The conversation explores the influence of Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense' and the omitted passage on slavery in Jefferson's draft, as well as the crucial role France played in altering the war's dynamics, showcasing how these elements shaped the birth of the United States.
87 snips
Jul 6, 2023 • 58min
348: The Boston Tea Party (Part 2)
In this engaging discussion, Oxford Professor Adam Smith, an expert on American history, delves deep into the Boston Tea Party's significance. He explores the tensions sparked by the Tea Act and the organizational fury that fueled colonial discontent. Smith provides insights on George Washington's rise as commander-in-chief, while also challenging listeners to consider the overlooked complexities of slavery during the revolution. This conversation paints a vivid picture of a pivotal moment that ignited the American quest for independence.
134 snips
Jul 3, 2023 • 58min
347: The American Revolution (Part 1)
This discussion features Professor Adam Smith, an Oxford historian specializing in the American Revolution. They dive into the escalating tensions between the American colonies and Britain, revealing the pivotal role of taxation and representation in sparking rebellion. The conversation also explores the cultural influences of the Great Awakening and how religious fervor contributed to the colonies' quest for self-governance. Listeners will discover early resistance movements and the complex relationship between identity and governance leading to revolution.
124 snips
Jun 29, 2023 • 54min
346: The Mystery of the Holy Grail
The discussion dives into the captivating mystery of the Holy Grail, a symbol that doesn't actually appear in the Bible. The hosts explore its cultural significance, intertwining comedy with historical roots, including Monty Python's take. Percival's quest reveals deep internal struggles, while Galahad's encounter with the Grail raises intriguing psychological questions. The podcast also critically analyzes how the Grail's symbolism evolved alongside medieval society and the Church's influence, challenging modern interpretations seen in films like Indiana Jones.
74 snips
Jun 26, 2023 • 58min
345: Raiders of the Lost Ark
Dive into the mysterious world of the Ark of the Covenant, a symbol of divine connection and power. Discover its role in biblical history, the cultural impact of 'Raiders of the Lost Ark', and the tangled tales surrounding its disappearance. Explore the Ark's rich ties to Ethiopia and the fascinating connections between theology and philosophy. Plus, enjoy some lighthearted speculation about its possible resting place in a warehouse. Uncover the blend of irony and intrigue that keeps this sacred artifact alive in popular culture.
62 snips
Jun 23, 2023 • 53min
344: Oppenheimer: The Witch Hunt (Part 2)
Discover the moral dilemmas faced by J. Robert Oppenheimer after the atomic bombings, as guilt follows initial triumph. Explore the Cold War paranoia and the complex debates on nuclear weapons among scientists. Delve into Oppenheimer's tumultuous relationship with Lewis Strauss, which escalated into a dangerous rivalry. Unpack Oppenheimer's transformation amidst accusations of communism and his eventual security clearance revocation, all while touching on Christopher Nolan's unique cinematic storytelling.
84 snips
Jun 22, 2023 • 55min
343: Oppenheimer: The Father of the Atom Bomb (Part 1)
Delve into the fascinating life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the mind behind the atomic bomb. Discover the intense atmosphere of the 1945 Trinity test and the moral quandaries that haunted him. Explore his early years, marked by social struggles and a brilliant intellect, alongside his political awakening amidst 1930s radicalism. The podcast examines Oppenheimer's complex motivations and the weight of his creation, culminating in a reflection on the ethical implications of his groundbreaking work in the nuclear age.
22 snips
Jun 19, 2023 • 46min
342: The Trials of Oscar Wilde: Downfall and Prison (Part 2)
Explore the dramatic downfall of Oscar Wilde as he faces scandalous accusations and societal backlash in 1895. Delve into his second trial, marked by fierce testimonies and a biased judge, revealing the harsh realities of his legal struggles. The conditions of his imprisonment and the psychological impact of isolation paint a vivid picture of his resilience. With deeper insights into his relationships and legacy, this captivating narrative highlights the complexities of power, love, and identity against the backdrop of Victorian society.
