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
26 snips
May 11, 2023 • 55min
331: American Witches
Historian Malcolm Gaskill, an expert on 17th-century New England, delves into the witch crazes that gripped the region in the 1640s. He explores the paranoia surrounding witchcraft in Springfield and the societal fears that fueled such hysteria. Gaskill highlights how tensions among early settlers and anxieties about child-rearing led to witch trials, exemplified through the story of Mary Parsons. His insights reveal the intersection of personal struggles and broader historical patterns, making it a haunting reflection on human fears and ambitions.
67 snips
May 8, 2023 • 54min
330: Herodotus: The Birth of History
Discover the story of Herodotus, the father of history, who pioneered engaging storytelling with a blend of myth and fact. Learn how his perspectives bridged Greek and Persian cultures, shedding light on significant events like the Persian Wars. Unravel the intricacies of his reporting style and the reliability of his accounts, while exploring themes of democracy and the nature of empires. Enjoy anecdotes that showcase Herodotus's wit, with a nod to a children's adaptation that brings his tales to a new generation.
May 6, 2023 • 53min
329: Coronations: Chaos, Ceremony and Empire (Part 3)
Explore the chaos and grandeur of British coronations through history. Discover the tumultuous transition from the Stuart dynasty to the Hanoverians, complete with political strife and humorous missteps. The contrast between extravagant past ceremonies and the practical modern approach is highlighted, along with the societal shifts influencing these traditions. Hear about the role of television in bringing the spectacle of the Queen's coronation to homes, and enjoy fascinating insights into the rituals that blend tradition with today's world.
May 5, 2023 • 53min
328: Coronations: Sex, Holy Oil and Civil War (Part 2)
Dive into the chaotic world of English coronations, where scandal and tradition collide. Discover the tumultuous crowning of Edwi and the unique Protestant ceremony of Edward VI. Hear about the connections between coronation rituals and civil unrest, as well as the historical significance of the holy oil. Experience the lavish events through Samuel Pepys' eyes and explore the healing rituals of the monarchy. The discussion teases future royal spectacles filled with both grandeur and absurdity.
May 4, 2023 • 50min
327: Coronations: The Deep History (Part 1)
Dive into the ancient roots of coronation rituals, unraveling their ties to the Roman Empire and biblical traditions. Discover how figures like Charlemagne shaped these ceremonies, and explore the fascinating blend of pagan and Christian practices. The story of the Stone of Scone reveals rich myths interwoven with Scottish royalty. Anointing rituals highlight the divine right of kings, while the grandeur of coronations often contrasts hilariously with historical antics. It's a captivating journey through the legacy of English monarchy and the rituals that define it.
89 snips
May 1, 2023 • 59min
326: The Year of Revolutions: 1848
In this engaging discussion, Christopher Clark, Regius Professor of History at the University of Cambridge, dives into the explosive year of 1848, a period marked by profound upheaval across Europe. He highlights the tumultuous revolutions that reshaped nations, fueled by rising nationalism and socialist ideas. Clark offers insights into why many uprisings failed while examining the interconnectedness of these events. He also reflects on the legacies of the revolutionaries, emphasizing their impact on modern governance and society.
12 snips
Apr 27, 2023 • 52min
325: Fall of Saigon: Apocalypse Now (Part 2)
In a gripping recount of the final days in Saigon, the urgent and chaotic evacuation of American citizens and South Vietnamese is vividly depicted. A French businessman’s frantic attempts to salvage personal items illustrate the emotional turmoil. The aftermath reveals a devastating refugee crisis and the brutal reality of re-education camps. Insights into cinema's impact on American foreign policy juxtapose with themes of imperialism, raising questions about representation and the ignored voices of the Vietnamese. The complexities of public perception and military intervention are also explored.
16 snips
Apr 24, 2023 • 49min
324: Fall of Saigon: The Nightmare Begins (Part 1)
In 1975, Saigon is on the brink of chaos as the U.S. withdraws from Vietnam. A mix of desperation envelops the city, with thousands storming the embassy amid gunfire and panic. Vivid accounts reveal the turmoil during the evacuation, highlighting the human cost of the conflict. The narrative connects the fall of Saigon with subsequent crises, while reflecting on the haunting legacies left by American intervention. Dive into the emotional and historical complexities of a pivotal moment that reshaped Southeast Asia.
Apr 20, 2023 • 57min
323: History's Greatest Dogs
Discover the captivating tales of history's most remarkable dogs! From Rin Tin Tin's rise as a silent film star to Greyfriars Bobby's 14-year vigil at his master's grave, these stories tug at the heartstrings. Explore how Checkers, Nixon's dog, influenced politics and learn about the tragic fates of Gellert, the devoted protector, and Blondie, Hitler's canine companion. With a mix of humor and poignancy, the conversation uncovers the deep connections between humans and their loyal furry friends throughout history.
36 snips
Apr 17, 2023 • 1h 7min
322: East Germany: Life Behind the Iron Curtain
Historian Katja Hoyer, author of "Beyond the Wall: East Germany, 1949-1990," sheds light on the complexities of life in East Germany. She discusses how the state attempted to create a socialist identity while grappling with economic struggles and police surveillance. Katja reveals the impact of the Berlin Wall on daily life, consumerism, and cultural identity, highlighting the tension between state ideology and personal freedom. They also explore the legacy of East Germany and its lasting effects on contemporary society, including ongoing divides in culture and politics.
