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
299 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 55min
597. The First World War: The Massacre of the Innocents (Part 4)
Explore the brutal Battle of Ypres, where the Germans and British clashed fiercely amid the horrors of trench warfare. Hear about the emotional weight of shared soldier experiences and the misconceptions surrounding the tragic kindermord. Delve into the strategic significance of Ypres and its impact on future conflicts, including the rise of Hitler. Discover tales of heroism, the staggering casualty rates, and the complex narratives that shaped national identities during this tumultuous time.
270 snips
Aug 31, 2025 • 1h 8min
596. The First World War: The Miracle on the Marne (Part 3)
Delve into the extraordinary events of the Battle of the Marne, where the French executed a stunning counter-offensive against the German army. Discover how General Joffre's strategy turned the tide and the dramatic plea for unity that stirred the Allies. There's humor in the unexpected use of Paris taxis to transport troops, highlighting the blend of bravery and innovation. The difficult realities of trench warfare reveal a grim contrast, as both sides grappled with despair amidst the chaos of World War I.
395 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 1h 1min
595. The First World War: The Battle of the Frontiers (Part 2)
Discover Britain's first military moves in WWI and the pivotal role of the Battle of the Ardennes. Explore the life of Aubrey Herbert, who chose battle over a royal title, and the complexities of British and French forces facing tension and camaraderie. Delve into leadership challenges, including tragic miscalculations by a French general and the overconfidence of British commanders. Revel in tales of unexpected heroism at the Battle of Mons, where grit clashed with overwhelming odds, all set against the chaotic backdrop of a besieged Paris.
635 snips
Aug 24, 2025 • 1h
594. The First World War: The Invasion of Belgium (Part 1)
Dive into the chaotic outbreak of the First World War, focusing on Germany's aggressive invasion of Belgium. Discover the cultural clash as Germany transitions from a nation of culture to one of militarism. Explore the miscalculations in diplomacy that inadvertently unified British support. Delve into vivid accounts of the German military's strategies and the unexpected resilience of Belgian forces, revealing the brutal realities of warfare. The shift in perception of Germany from admiration to vilification sets the stage for understanding this monumental conflict.
168 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 57min
593. The Fight of the Century
Robert Coles, an expert in the history of sport and author, joins the conversation to unpack the legendary 1860 boxing match between Tom Sayers and John Heenan. The discussion dives into the cultural significance of this brutal encounter and its reflections on 19th-century British identity. Listeners will learn about the harsh training regimens that fighters endured, the vibrant atmosphere leading up to the match, and the evolution of boxing rules that emerged from this chaotic era. Coles offers insights into how this clash changed British sport forever.
201 snips
Aug 17, 2025 • 57min
592. Mad Victorian Sport
Dive into the fascinating origins of football and its clubs, alongside the odd interplay between public hangings and early sporting events. Discover the historical significance of iconic venues like the Oval and the remarkable endurance feats of Victorian pedestrian Richard Manx. Unravel the compelling stories behind rugby, cricket's Ashes rivalry, and the peculiar spectacle of competitive dog and monkey events. This intriguing exploration uncovers how sports evolved within the cultural landscape of 19th-century England.
224 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 1h 8min
591. The Assassination of Abraham Lincoln: Manhunt for the Killer (Part 2)
Dive into the dramatic events of Good Friday 1865 when Abraham Lincoln was assassinated at Ford's Theatre by John Wilkes Booth. Discover Booth's impulsive motivations and the chaos that erupted in the theater that night. Follow the tense manhunt for Booth, filled with intrigue and betrayal, as Union soldiers pursued him through chaotic landscapes. Explore the profound grief felt by Lincoln's family and the racial implications of his death, debating his legacy as a martyr or tyrant and its impact on America's future.
299 snips
Aug 10, 2025 • 1h 2min
590. The Assassination of Abraham Lincoln: Death at the Theatre (Part 1)
Explore the dramatic final days of Abraham Lincoln as he navigates the aftermath of the Civil War and contemplates reconciliation. Delve into the psyche of John Wilkes Booth, the troubled actor whose radical views drove him to assassinate Lincoln. Learn about the pivotal moments leading to Lincoln's tragic fate at Ford's Theatre, juxtaposed against a backdrop of political turmoil and personal reflection. Witness the intertwining of hope and despair as history unfolds in a haunting narrative.
120 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 1h 6min
589. Mary, Queen of Scots: Downfall (Part 6)
Explore the dramatic turn of events in Mary, Queen of Scots’ life after her husband’s murder. Discover the intricate web of betrayal surrounding the Darnley conspiracy and the controversial marriage to Bothwell. Delve into Mary's harrowing descent into despair as she is coerced into abdication and forced to flee. Witness her tumultuous escape attempts and the political challenges she faced in England. Finally, reflect on the complexities of female leadership in the 16th century and how it shaped her legacy.
43 snips
Aug 3, 2025 • 1h
588. Mary, Queen of Scots: The Mystery of the Exploding Mansion (Part 5)
Dive into the shocking murder of Lord Darnley, unraveling the political intrigue and controversies that surround his death. Explore whether Mary, Queen of Scots, had a hand in this dark chapter of history. Discover the tumultuous relationship between Mary and Darnley, marked by ambition and betrayal. Investigate the conspirators involved and how their schemes reverberated through Scottish politics. Finally, witness Mary’s struggle between personal grief and political survival amid the chaos of her reign.
