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 or start a free trial today on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/therestishistory.
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 or start a free trial today on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/therestishistory.
For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
19 snips
Sep 7, 2022 • 55min
229. Portugal: Gold, Earthquakes, and Brazil (Part 3)
Delve into Portugal's rich history, from the catastrophic 1755 Lisbon earthquake that reshaped the nation, to philosophical debates spurred by its aftermath. Discover the transformative journey of the Portuguese royal family as they fled to Brazil, balancing colonial interests with rising independence sentiments. Explore the radical reforms of the Marques de Pombal and the architectural legacy of Lisbon’s rebuilding, all while navigating the turmoil of the Napoleonic Wars and the complexities of international alliances.
19 snips
Sep 6, 2022 • 54min
228. Portugal: The Golden Age of Discovery (Part 2)
Explore the Age of Discovery as Portugal charts bold new territories and confronts the complexities of imperial ambitions. Discover the pivotal role of Vasco da Gama and the daunting challenges he faced on his journey to India. The podcast reveals the surprising cultural transformations in Lisbon, from the introduction of exotic animals to the rise of the Portuguese custard tart. Dive into the tensions of Spanish rule and the shifting identity of the Portuguese Empire, showcasing both its glory and impending struggles.
27 snips
Sep 5, 2022 • 49min
227. Portugal: On the Edge of the World (Part 1)
Dive into the rich tapestry of Portugal's history, from Roman conquests to the Reconquista, and the intriguing alliance with England. Discover the fascinating marriage of Philippa of England and John I, which sparked lasting trade ties. Hear about Portugal's pivotal role in global exploration during the 15th century and the complex legacy of their maritime ambitions. Plus, explore the delightful world of Portuguese wine, featuring unique flavors and cultural connections that enhance the narrative.
29 snips
Sep 1, 2022 • 1h 4min
226. The Lord of the Rings
Dive into the transformative journey of Bilbo Baggins as he navigates adventure and identity. Discover the enchanting depths of Tolkien’s world, addressing themes of power and morality woven through his narratives. Explore the political landscapes and cultural dimensions of the Shire amidst industrialization. Uncover the unseen narratives reflecting post-war struggles and Tolkien's views on governance. Finally, enjoy the enduring legacy of a literary classic that continues to resonate with readers today.
94 snips
Aug 29, 2022 • 58min
225. J.R.R. Tolkien
Delve into the fascinating world of J.R.R. Tolkien, exploring his childhood and the early romance that shaped his literary journey. Discover how the changing English landscape influenced Middle Earth and examine the profound impact of World War I on his writing. The discussion also uncovers Tolkien's friendships, particularly with C.S. Lewis, and the literary inspirations behind his mythic creations. Insights into his legacy reveal how societal themes resonate through his celebrated works, connecting fans and critics alike.
47 snips
Aug 25, 2022 • 58min
224. Roman Holidays
This discussion takes listeners on a luxurious journey through ancient Roman holidays. Pliny the Younger's opulent villa offers a glimpse into high-class leisure, while the evolution of tourism reveals intriguing parallels to today. The impact of Roman conquests on cultural heritage sparks a conversation about looting and restitution. Key figures like Nero and Cicero come to life as their travels lead to emotional connections with ancient ruins. The hosts highlight how the essence of holidaying has persisted through the ages, reminding us that history is always a delightful escape.
31 snips
Aug 22, 2022 • 52min
223. Sun, Sea, and Sex
Dive into the fascinating world of modern holidays and their evolution since the First World War. Discover how sunshine destinations like Benidorm emerged alongside cultural shifts in leisure. The bikini revolution and its societal impact are explored, alongside the comedic chaos of 1970s holiday mishaps in pop culture. From the rise of package tours to the changing dynamics of travel with the internet, this lively conversation uncovers how tourism has become a mirror of social class and personal experience.
25 snips
Aug 18, 2022 • 53min
222. Victorian Holidays
Dive into the birth of mass tourism and the quirky traditions of Victorian holidays. Discover Thomas Cook’s role in shaping modern travel and the contrasting experiences of different social classes. From bizarre German spa treatments to the cultural implications of leisurely trips, the hosts deliver humor and insights. They explore the rise of seaside resorts and evolving views on nature, reflecting on the intertwining of history and personal travel anecdotes. Expect a fascinating plunge into a vibrant past!
33 snips
Aug 15, 2022 • 51min
221. Holidays: Byron's Grand Tour
Explore the fascinating world of the Grand Tour, a rite of passage for 18th-century aristocrats. Discover how Lord Byron and his peers traveled for romance and health, shaping modern vacation culture. Delve into the rise of seaside resorts like Brighton, influenced by seawater therapies. Marvel at the architectural extravagance of the Royal Pavilion and its fantastical elements. Byron's travels reveal the dawn of modern tourism, offering insights into how art and leisure intertwined during this transformative era.
39 snips
Aug 11, 2022 • 53min
220. Justinian & Theodora: The Secret History (Part 3)
Dive into the tumultuous reign of Justinian and Theodora as they grapple with wars and plagues in the Byzantine Empire. Discover how military campaigns reshaped Italy and the harrowing toll of the Justinianic plague. Explore Theodora's surprising journey from controversial figure to champion of women's rights, juxtaposed with the cunning dynamics of historical friendships. With a dash of humor, the hosts connect past rulers to modern reality TV, offering a fresh perspective on power and legacy. Get ready for an intriguing blend of history and insight!
