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
Sep 9, 2022 • 48min
232. Queen Elizabeth II (Part 2)
Explore the intriguing early years of Queen Elizabeth II's reign and her pivotal role during global decolonization. Discover how her relationships with leaders like Margaret Thatcher shaped her public image. Delve into the whimsical 'It's a Royal Knockout' event, showcasing changing media perceptions. Reflect on the contrasts between Queen Elizabeth and the emotional presence of Princess Diana and the cultural dynamics involving Meghan Markle. Finally, ponder the legacy of a monarch who balanced tradition with the modern world.
14 snips
Sep 9, 2022 • 47min
231. Queen Elizabeth II (Part 1)
Reflecting on the deep sense of loss after the Queen's passing, the discussion explores her enduring symbolism and emotional impact on the British public. Delving into her strong Christian faith, they highlight her role as a sacramental leader amidst a modern, secular Britain. The podcast also recounts her formative years during WWII, her transition from naval spouse to monarch, and the historical significance of her coronation, offering insights into her legacy and the monarchy's evolution throughout her reign.
14 snips
Sep 8, 2022 • 1h
230. Portugal: Football, Fado, and Fascism? (Part 4)
Delve into the rich tapestry of 20th-century Portugal, where Fado music and the concept of 'saudade' reflect a nation grappling with loss. Discover the rise of dictator Antonio Salazar, who maintained stability through authoritarianism while navigating WWII and colonial struggles. Explore the iconic football legacy of Eusebio and Benfica, which mirrored Portugal's social and political shifts. Uncover the complexities of Portuguese history, including its cultural charm and the moral ambiguities surrounding figures and events from this tumultuous era.
33 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.
32 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.
31 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.
