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
51 snips
Jun 30, 2022 • 50min
202. American Civil War: Gettysburg (Part 3)
Historian Adam Smith from the University of Oxford joins to explore the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg and Abraham Lincoln's iconic address. They discuss the strategic blunders of Confederate General Lee and the crucial impact of Union General Meade's decisions. The conversation shifts to the experiences of Black soldiers during the Civil War, their contributions, and struggles for freedom. Smith also examines how the battle shaped commemoration practices, alongside the enduring legacy of Lincoln's words that resonate even today.
53 snips
Jun 28, 2022 • 50min
201. American Civil War: Outbreak (Part 2)
In this riveting discussion, historian Adam Smith brings his expertise on the American Civil War. He delves into the mindset of the Confederacy post-Fort Sumter, capturing their belief in Northern weakness. The conversation highlights the motivations behind the North's commitment to preserving the Union and the moral complexities surrounding iconic figures like Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson. Smith also unpacks the harsh realities of the war and the unexpected roles women played, alongside cultural shifts like the transition from cricket to baseball among soldiers.
90 snips
Jun 27, 2022 • 58min
200: American Civil War: The Causes (Part 1)
In this engaging discussion, historian Adam Smith, an expert on Lincoln and the Civil War, dives deep into the origins of one of America's most pivotal conflicts. The moral, political, and economic roots of slavery are explored, revealing how these factors made war inevitable. Smith highlights Lincoln's complex views on slavery while examining the turbulent political landscape of the 1850s and the prelude to conflict in Kansas. The episode sheds light on how cultural narratives and key figures shaped public opinion, contributing to escalating tensions.
44 snips
Jun 23, 2022 • 1h 1min
199. Stonehenge
In this engaging discussion, archaeologist Mike Pitts, an authority on Stonehenge, unpacks the monument's mysteries. He explores who built it, the innovative techniques used to transport its massive stones, and its cultural significance. Delving into myths, Pitts debunks misconceptions about Druids and human sacrifice while highlighting the site's enduring legacy. The conversation intertwines personal insights with archaeological discoveries, making the enigmatic history of Stonehenge both accessible and captivating.
64 snips
Jun 16, 2022 • 46min
198. Cleopatra's Downfall (Part 4)
In this thrilling finale, the strategic use of propaganda by Octavian to tarnish Antony's reputation takes center stage. The power dynamics between Cleopatra, Antony, and Octavian reveal the complexities of ambition and betrayal during their tumultuous relationships. As tensions escalate leading to the Battle of Actium, we explore Antony and Cleopatra's ultimate miscalculations. The heartbreaking end of their story raises questions about legacy and historical narratives, celebrating Cleopatra as a formidable figure in a male-dominated world.
39 snips
Jun 15, 2022 • 40min
197. Antony & Cleopatra (Part 3)
Dive into the intricate power dynamics of Cleopatra and Mark Antony's complex relationship, where love intertwines with ambition. Discover how financial motivations shaped their alliance amidst Roman political chaos. Explore Antony's daring military dreams against Parthia and Cleopatra's strategic role in his plans. Unfold the spectacle of the Donations of Alexandria, revealing both their aspirations and looming threats from Octavian. This historical journey showcases how the past continues to echo in the themes of politics and power.
41 snips
Jun 14, 2022 • 42min
196. Julius Caesar & Cleopatra (Part 2)
Discover the captivating allure of Cleopatra as she shapes her image to gain power. Dive into her thrilling entrance to meet Caesar, wrapped in a carpet, showcasing her strategic brilliance. Explore the intense political dynamics during her reign, including conflicts with her brother and her relationship with Caesar. Unravel the ruthless ambitions that led to her brother's fate and the implications of her union with Caesar on both Egyptian and Roman histories. This is a tale of power, intrigue, and dramatic historical events.
49 snips
Jun 13, 2022 • 44min
195. Young Cleopatra (Part 1)
The podcast uncovers the early life of Cleopatra, revealing the political chaos in Ptolemaic Egypt. It highlights her complex character and the significant legacy she left as both a seductive figure and a formidable ruler. Delving into her ethnicity, the discussion addresses contemporary debates about her identity. Listeners gain insight into the brutal dynamics of her dynasty and her strategic rise to power amidst turmoil. The talk also draws parallels between Cleopatra and modern figures, exploring themes of empowerment and societal narratives.
51 snips
Jun 9, 2022 • 1h 3min
194. The First Fascist
Joining the discussion is Lucy Hughes-Hallett, a historian and author known for her biography of Gabriele D'Annunzio. They delve into D'Annunzio's complex role as a literary figure and his paradoxical influence on Italian politics, particularly regarding fascism. The conversation reveals how his romanticized rhetoric around war shaped nationalist sentiment leading up to World War I. They also explore his troubling legacy and the ways his dramatic actions resonated throughout Italian culture, making him an enduring yet controversial figure.
Jun 7, 2022 • 1h 9min
193. How Prime Ministers Fall
Explore the tumultuous journeys of British Prime Ministers as they navigate political crises and votes of confidence. Dive into historical parallels with past leaders like Asquith and Chamberlain, examining the dynamic interplay of charisma and rivalry. The discussion humorously contrasts the drama of political downfalls with reality TV antics, offering anecdotes from high-stakes resignations and tumultuous cabinet dynamics. Discover the complex interplay of public perception and personal relationships that shapes the fates of these political titans.
