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
29 snips
Jan 27, 2022 • 56min
143. The Trial of Charles I Part 1
Professor Ted Vallance, a renowned 17th-century English historian, delves into the complexities surrounding Charles I's trial and execution. He explores whether the king's death was an act of treason or a form of justice. Discussions reveal the tumultuous political and social atmosphere of the time, the king's ambition for absolutism, and the pivotal role of key figures like Cromwell. Vallance also highlights Charles’s unsuccessful escape attempts, public sentiment towards monarchy, and the foundational shifts towards republican ideals in England.
Jan 25, 2022 • 58min
142. General Gordon and the Siege of Khartoum
Explore the gripping saga of General Gordon during the Siege of Khartoum, a pivotal moment in Victorian history. Delve into his complex legacy, marked by both bravery and controversy, as he navigates anti-slavery efforts and imperial ambitions. Discover the apocalyptic movements responding to Western imperialism, revealing deeper struggles for autonomy. The podcast balances serious themes with humor, painting a vivid picture of Gordon's life and the intricacies of colonial interventions.
Jan 24, 2022 • 41min
141. General Gordon: The Ultimate Victorian Hero
Dive into the life of General Charles George Gordon, a Victorian icon and tragic hero. Discover the complexities of his legacy, from his humanitarian efforts to his moral ambiguities. Unpack his significant military roles in conflicts like the Crimean War and Taiping Rebellion. Explore the impact of his death in Khartoum and how public perception evolved over time. The narrative shifts to 19th-century China, showcasing Gordon’s unique leadership and struggles with fame, while highlighting his philanthropic initiatives.
49 snips
Jan 20, 2022 • 56min
140. The Birth of the Railways
Join historian Dan Jackson, expert on the Northeast of England and author of The Northumbrians, as he delves into the fascinating history of railways. Discover the thrilling origins of trains and their role in standardizing GMT in Britain. Explore how railways transformed Victorian society, reshaping livelihoods and landscapes. Jackson shares intriguing anecdotes, including the dramatic opening day of the railway and George Stevenson's quirky cucumber straightening invention, blending humor and history in a compelling storytelling journey.
Jan 18, 2022 • 58min
139. The Princes in the Tower Part 2
The mysterious fate of the Princes in the Tower captivates as Richard III emerges as the prime suspect. Delve into the treacherous political landscape after Edward IV's death, highlighting loyalty, betrayal, and royal intrigue. Discover theories surrounding the princes' last days and the implications of their disappearance. The discussion also plays with historical identities, contrasting figures like Richard III to modern leaders. Always on the edge of dramatic paradoxes, this tale of ambition, survival, and power unfolds like a historical thriller.
Jan 17, 2022 • 49min
138. The Princes in the Tower Part 1
Dive into the mystery of the Princes in the Tower as the hosts unravel their fates against the backdrop of political chaos and the Wars of the Roses. Discover the surprising parallels between Edward IV and his grandson, Henry VIII, and the fascinating story of his marriage to Elizabeth Woodville, a commoner. Enjoy lively discussions on power struggles, shifting alliances, and how these figures shaped England's turbulent history. Plus, listen in as one host humorously claims superiority in prince impressions!
32 snips
Jan 14, 2022 • 1h 4min
137. 1922: The Birth of the Modern World Part 2
Discover the dynamism of 1922, a year marked by upheaval and change! Hear about the Irish Civil War and Winston Churchill's political journey. Dive into the frenzy of 'Tutmania' following the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb. The birth of the BBC also takes center stage, reshaping media forever. With insightful anecdotes and historical reflections, relish a captivating discussion on the shifting tides of global politics and cultural narratives. It’s a deep dive into a transformative era that shaped the modern world!
70 snips
Jan 13, 2022 • 55min
136. 1922: The Birth of the Modern World Part 1
Dive into the transformative year of 1922 as pivotal political and cultural shifts begin to reshape modern history. Explore the emergence of Bolshevism and fascism, alongside an intriguing Parisian dinner with literary legends like Joyce and Proust. Delve into T.S. Eliot's 'The Waste Land' and its themes of redemption amidst post-war disillusionment. Examine the chaos in Germany, fueled by hyperinflation and societal divides, and the rise of Stalin and Mussolini against this turbulent backdrop. Experience a rich blend of history and culture that still resonates today.
47 snips
Jan 11, 2022 • 37min
135. Crossing the Rubicon: The die is cast
Julius Caesar's crossing of the Rubicon marks a dramatic turning point in Roman history, igniting civil war and reshaping power dynamics. The podcast delves into Caesar's ambitious campaigns in Gaul, revealing his relentless pursuit of wealth and fame. Political turmoil in Rome escalates, showcasing tensions between Caesar and Pompey. The legacy of Caesar is contrasted with that of Augustus, raising questions about ambition and historical memorability. Explore how pivotal decisions transformed the Roman Republic into an empire!
66 snips
Jan 10, 2022 • 40min
134. Crossing the Rubicon: The rise of Julius Caesar
Explore the riveting journey of Julius Caesar's rise to power and the dramatic decision to cross the Rubicon. Dive into the political chaos of ancient Rome and the ambitions of key figures like Pompey and Crassus. Discover how personal connections and contemporary parallels shape Caesar's actions. Delve into the complexities of ambition versus collective ideals, and challenge the narratives of his predecessors. The groundwork for his ascent reveals contrasts between strategy and opportunism, setting the stage for epic confrontations.
