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
162 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 1h 4min
553. The Last Viking: Warrior of the New Rome (Part 2)
Dive into the thrilling saga of Harald Hardrada, an exiled prince turned mercenary who finds himself battling for power in Constantinople. Discover his adventures as a Varangian Guard, navigating the chaotic political landscape and rivalries of the Byzantine court. Intriguingly, his ambitions lead to a dangerous affair with the empress, a harrowing prison escape, and a relentless drive to reclaim the Norwegian throne. Unravel the blend of history and legend that surrounds his epic quest for glory and the dramatic events leading to 1066.
180 snips
Mar 30, 2025 • 1h 2min
552. The Last Viking: The Saga of Harald Hardrada (Part 1)
Dive into the thrilling life of Harald Hardrada, a Viking warrior whose adventures shaped Norse history. From a young prince in Norway to a fierce mercenary in Kyiv, his quest for glory is packed with battles and extraordinary escapades. Discover his complex relationship with his brother Olaf and the significant events leading to the Battle of Stiklestad. The journey unfolds through the cultural tapestry of 11th-century Europe, culminating in his dramatic experiences in Constantinople and his role in the elite Varangian Guard.
103 snips
Mar 27, 2025 • 60min
551. The Road to 1066: Countdown to Conquest (Part 4)
Unravel the captivating rise of Harold Godwinson, the last Anglo-Saxon king of England, and learn how his cunning family navigated politics to reach power. Discover the significance of his marriage ties, particularly to Edith, and the royal turmoil that ensued. Explore the tense dynamics leading up to 1066, marked by shifting loyalties and the bitter rivalries of the time. As the stakes escalated, the fate of England hung precariously in the balance, setting the stage for monumental clashes ahead.
348 snips
Mar 24, 2025 • 58min
550. The Road to 1066: Rise of the Normans (Part 3)
Delve into the dramatic rise of William of Normandy, born a 'bastard' yet destined for greatness. Trace his tumultuous early years marked by betrayal, bloodshed, and a quest for power amidst anarchy. Explore the fierce nature of the Normans as they transition from mercenaries to conquerors, and witness the power struggles that shaped their destiny. The podcast highlights William's complex character and the political intrigue surrounding his claim to the English crown, set against the backdrop of a lethal rivalry and shifting loyalties.
352 snips
Mar 20, 2025 • 1h 5min
549. The Road to 1066: Revenge of the Vikings (Part 2)
The podcast delves into the bloody aftermath of the St Brice’s Day Massacre, where King Æthelred’s actions lead to Viking revenge under King Sweyn Forkbeard. It explores Sweyn’s rise to power through the Christianization of Scandinavia and his devastating raids on England. Discussions highlight the chaotic leadership of Æthelred and the subsequent struggle for the throne between Edmund Ironside and Cnut. The tension foreshadows the monumental events leading to 1066, as interests clash and kingdoms are forged in fire.
449 snips
Mar 17, 2025 • 58min
548. The Road to 1066: Anglo-Saxon Apocalypse (Part 1)
The buildup to the legendary Battle of Hastings reveals a dramatic succession crisis in 975 AD. King Æthelred, facing Viking invasions, tries to reclaim control. Rivalries among Harold Godwinson, Harold Hardrada, and William of Normandy escalate tensions, foreshadowing monumental change. The Norman Conquest not only reshapes the political landscape but also influences the evolution of the English language and national identity. Meanwhile, stories of Viking leaders like Rollo highlight the shifting dynamics of power and culture.
178 snips
Mar 13, 2025 • 1h 3min
547. The French Revolution: The Execution of the King (Part 4)
Witness the dramatic trial of King Louis XVI, where a guilty verdict threatens the monarchy's very existence. Explore the powerful rhetoric that sways public sentiment during this turbulent time. Feel the emotional weight as the fate of the king is sealed, leading to his chilling execution by guillotine. The event marks a seismic shift in France and Europe, challenging royal authority and reshaping societal norms. Discover how this key moment foreshadows rising tensions in revolutionary France as the nation grapples with its new identity.
253 snips
Mar 10, 2025 • 1h
546. The French Revolution: The Monarchy Falls (Part 3)
The podcast dives into the dramatic turning point of the French Revolution, focusing on the abolition of the monarchy and the chaotic atmosphere in Paris. As the National Convention convenes amidst fierce political rivalries, the stakes are high with Prussia closing in. The heated debates between the Girondins and Montagnards reveal the intense ideological struggles of the period. Listeners will encounter a blend of history and humor, with lively discussions about Louis XVI's trial and the far-reaching impacts of the revolution on national identity.
154 snips
Mar 6, 2025 • 1h 1min
545. The French Revolution: The First Feminist (Part 2)
Dive into the tumultuous world of the French Revolution, where Marianne symbolizes hope amid chaos. Discover the pivotal roles women played, often overlooked in history, like Madame Roland, who shaped political discourse yet opposed female political involvement. Learn about Olympe de Gouges, a trailblazer for women's rights, and the Fernig sisters, who fought for recognition in a male-dominated society. The podcast challenges historical narratives while highlighting the complexities of gender equality during this revolutionary period.
261 snips
Mar 3, 2025 • 1h
544. The French Revolution: The September Massacres (Part 1)
In the tumultuous atmosphere of 1792 Paris, fear and paranoia spark the horrific September Massacres. Tensions between revolutionary factions boil over, leading to brutal violence against prisoners. The episode uncovers chilling events, including the calculated executions and the tragic fate of marginalized individuals. With revolutionary fervor fueled by the threat of invasion and political strife, the narrative explores the thin line between justice and terror, revealing how the actions of ordinary citizens became draped in vengeance and chaos.
