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
11 snips
Oct 13, 2022 • 1h 24min
242. French History on Film
Film critic Muriel Zagha joins the discussion, bringing her expertise in French cinema to explore the intertwining of film and French history. They delve into iconic films that depict critical moments like the Dreyfus Affair and the Massacre of St. Bartholomew's Day. Zagha highlights how various portrayals of figures like Joan of Arc influence collective memory. The conversation also addresses the challenges of adapting controversial narratives and the resilience of French cinema against Hollywood. Insights into cultural reflections make this a captivating dialogue.
24 snips
Oct 10, 2022 • 52min
241. Young Churchill: Prisoner and Fugitive (Part 3)
Discover the thrilling tale of Winston Churchill's escape from a Boer War prisoner camp, where rat-infested hideaways and a near-disastrous hair appointment add to the drama. Delve into the complexities of British imperialism and the Boer-British tensions that shaped this era. Explore Churchill's political ambitions, his rise from military fame, and the challenges faced during attacks like the Siege of Ladysmith. This finale reveals the resilience and audacity that would ultimately carve out his legacy as a national hero.
31 snips
Oct 6, 2022 • 55min
240. Young Churchill: Soldier of Empire (Part 2)
In this installment, Tom and Dominic unravel Winston Churchill's adventurous youth, highlighting his early military exploits and war correspondence in Cuba. They explore the complex relationship with his father, fueling his obsession for fame and daring exploits. The discussions delve into his reflections on honor, brutality, and the moral dilemmas of imperialism during the Battle of Omdurman. The podcast also contrasts the serious realities of colonialism with a sprinkle of whimsy from poetic influences, giving a fresh perspective on historical narratives.
31 snips
Oct 3, 2022 • 53min
239: Young Churchill: Born to Lead (Part 1)
Dive into Winston Churchill's early life, filled with a mix of aristocracy and ambition. Discover the impact of his cruel upbringing and the prophecy that fueled his sense of destiny. The podcast reveals the complexities of his relationship with his parents and how neglect shaped his formative years. You'll hear about his tumultuous experiences at Harrow and the influential bond with his nanny, who played a crucial role in developing his character. This fascinating exploration sets the stage for his future military endeavors and leadership aspirations.
17 snips
Sep 29, 2022 • 58min
238. The Regency Revolution
Hilary Davidson, a fashion historian and author of "Dress in the Age of Jane Austen," joins the discussion on Regency-era fashion. She reveals how clothing styles, from empire line dresses to tailored men’s wear, reflected the social upheaval of the time. The conversation delves into the transition from structured garments to more fluid silhouettes, the influence of figures like Beau Brummel, and the cultural implications of changing styles. Davidson also connects these fashion transformations to the literary themes found in Jane Austen's works.
Sep 26, 2022 • 59min
237. Marilyn Monroe
Dive into the fascinating world of Marilyn Monroe, a timeless symbol of glamour with a complex legacy. Discover her connections to the Mafia and the Kennedy brothers, and the societal impact of her identity struggles. Explore how her tumultuous relationships and tragic end sparked conspiracy theories. The conversation reveals her transformation from a pinup to a feminist icon, all while tracing her influence on Hollywood and modern culture. Join the exploration of a life that blends stardom with personal tragedy, shaping America's cultural narrative.
33 snips
Sep 22, 2022 • 1h 5min
236. China and World War II (Part 2)
Rana Mitter, a Professor of History and Politics at Oxford University and an expert on modern China, dives deep into China's tumultuous role in World War II. The conversation highlights the harrowing events of the Rape of Nanjing and the ethically complex decision by Chinese leaders to flood the Yellow River to halt the Japanese advance. Mitter also explores the contrasting tactics of leaders like Chiang Kai-shek and the implications of collaborationist regimes, shedding light on how these historical events shape China's collective memory today.
67 snips
Sep 20, 2022 • 60min
235. China and World War II (Part 1)
Rana Mitter, a Professor of History and Politics at Oxford and expert on modern Chinese history, joins the discussion on China's pivotal role in World War II. He argues that the war's true beginning can be traced back to 1937, highlighting the overlooked significance of the Second Sino-Japanese War. The conversation dives into China's political fragmentation, the rivalry between Nationalists and Communists, and the complex legacy of figures like Wang Jingwei. Mitter provides insight into Shanghai's dramatic decline amidst the conflict and the struggle for Chinese sovereignty.
43 snips
Sep 15, 2022 • 58min
234. Germans Behaving Badly
Award-winning historian Andrea Wulf, author of 'Magnificent Rebels', dives into the lives of late 18th-century German Romantic thinkers like Goethe and Schiller. She uncovers how their progressive ideas shaped our modern self-obsession and individualism. Explore the vibrant intellectual scene in Jena and how it fostered creativity, as well as the philosophical tensions that influenced romantic relationships. Wulf also connects these historical insights to today's societal challenges, revealing the lasting impact of Enlightenment thinkers on contemporary thought.
10 snips
Sep 12, 2022 • 1h 12min
233. The Loch Ness Monster
The podcast dives into the captivating legend of the Loch Ness Monster. From the first recorded sighting to the myth's origins, it explores how folklore intertwines with modern culture. Alistair Crowley's bizarre connection adds a mystical twist. Highlights include dramatic encounters from the 1930s and the impact of sensational journalism. The discussion also brings in comparisons with other legendary creatures, offering insights into the allure of myths in today's world. It's a fascinating journey through history, skepticism, and cultural identity.
