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
8 snips
Dec 27, 2021 • 30min
12 Days: Port wine and Darwin sets sail
Discover the fascinating roots of England's love affair with port wine and how it became a festive staple. Unearth the history behind the Methuen Treaty, which opened the gates to this beloved beverage. Delve into the trials and triumphs of Charles Darwin during his transformative voyage on the HMS Beagle. Explore the complex dynamics between Darwin and Captain Fitzroy, as their different beliefs shaped their journey. This blend of history and personal anecdotes illuminates significant cultural shifts and scientific breakthroughs.
Dec 26, 2021 • 22min
12 Days: Good King Wenceslas and the first Gilbert & Sullivan
Discover the intriguing life of Duke Wenceslas of Bohemia, the man behind the beloved carol, examining his acts of charity and his contrasting brother. Enjoy a humorous take on expanding festive traditions into '13 Days of Christmas' with playful commentary. Delve into Gilbert & Sullivan's satirical masterpiece, 'Thespis,' exploring its cultural significance and criticisms. The hosts also reflect on the renaming of the Czech Republic to Czechia, blending history with modern cultural insights.
7 snips
Dec 25, 2021 • 37min
12 Days: Coronation of Charlemagne and the collapse of the Soviet Union
This podcast dives into the fascinating legacy of Charlemagne, spotlighting his Christmas Day coronation in 800 AD and its monumental effect on the Holy Roman Empire. The discussion then transitions to the chaotic end of the Soviet Union, detailing Gorbachev's struggles and Boris Yeltsin's rise amidst turmoil. With a playful tone, the hosts blend festive cheer with serious historical events, revealing how these pivotal moments intertwine with the spirit of the season.
Dec 23, 2021 • 1h 8min
133. Christmas churches
Join an exploration of Christmas churches featuring fan favorite Rachel Morley. Discover top festive church traditions, quirky holiday anecdotes, and the humorous history of Christmas music composers like Handel. Reflect on the legacy of 'A Christmas Carol' intertwined with festive films and charitable acts throughout the centuries. Delve into the quirky past of self-raising flour, and uncover tales linking medieval churches to Camelot. Lastly, enjoy playful discussions on tinsel's history and exciting holiday announcements!
7 snips
Dec 20, 2021 • 49min
132. A Christmas Carol
Dive into the festive world of Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, and Tiny Tim as the hosts explore the rich history of 'A Christmas Carol.' They journey through historical London, revealing Charles Dickens' influence on Christmas traditions. Scrooge's transformation from a lonely miser to a symbol of generosity is dissected, along with the deeper themes of isolation and redemption. Personal anecdotes and humorous mishaps add charm, while the discussion also highlights the societal reflections woven into Dickens' beloved tale.
Dec 18, 2021 • 13min
The 1960s (preview)
The 1960s are dissected as a decade of cultural revolution versus individualism. The hosts debate if it represented a true break from the past or merely built on earlier trends. They dive into the rich tapestry of race, gender, and economics during this transformative era, alongside the emergence of youth culture. Anxieties from the fallout of World War II and fears of nuclear conflict are explored, revealing the tension between everyday life and global crises. All this while Tom treats listeners to a rendition of Bob Dylan!
67 snips
Dec 16, 2021 • 1h 2min
131. Burgundy: Europe's forgotten superpower
Bart van Loo, a renowned author and expert on Burgundy, explores the region's once-mighty influence in medieval Europe. He shares tales of notable figures like Philip the Good, whose romantic exploits and leadership shaped history. The discussion intertwines themes of power and betrayal, diving into the intricate relationships that defined Burgundy's legacy. Listeners learn how this forgotten superpower played a pivotal role in the identity of contemporary regions like Belgium and the Netherlands, and the cultural and political ramifications that still resonate today.
Dec 13, 2021 • 1h 2min
130. Superheroes
Explore the fascinating origins of superheroes, tracing their rise in the 1930s alongside the rise of fascism. Discover how cultural shifts shaped these iconic characters, from Superman to Spider-Man. The discussion delves into themes of dual identity and societal reflection, including the unique background of female heroes like Wonder Woman. Humor and personal connections highlight the impact of superheroes on mental health and societal perceptions. Join a lively examination of lesser-known characters and the evolution of comic book narratives.
4 snips
Dec 9, 2021 • 1h 9min
129. Cricket
Jon Hotten, author of 'The Meaning of Cricket,' dives into the fascinating journey of cricket from its peasant origins to a global phenomenon. He highlights the sport's cultural significance, particularly its links to British identity and the Empire. The discussion also covers pivotal moments like the Ashes series and contrasts cricket's evolution with baseball in America. Hotten reflects on cricket's social fabric, touching on its amateur roots and the timeless appeal that keeps fans engaged across generations.
Dec 7, 2021 • 13min
History's greatest clubs (preview)
Dive into the fascinating world of historic clubs, from ancient Rome to modern elites. Discover hilarious anecdotes about the extravagant lifestyles of iconic figures like Antony and Cleopatra. Uncover how these organizations shaped social dynamics and community interactions. Join a lively conversation about the potential of clubs to foster connections and ideas among like-minded individuals. The presenters invite listeners to engage and share their thoughts in an inclusive atmosphere, adding a touch of humor to the historical discourse.
