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
47 snips
Oct 7, 2021 • 1h 1min
105. Classics
Join Professor Mary Beard, a distinguished classicist from Cambridge University, as she delves into the evolving legacy of ancient Greece and Rome. The conversation spans the bizarre imagery of Dante’s Hell featuring Julius Caesar and the controversial calls to cancel Classics in modern times. Mary highlights the enduring influence of classics on literature and culture, questions the elitism in classical studies, and even entertains a humorous debate about whether Alexander the Great or Julius Caesar would dominate in a historical showdown.
Oct 6, 2021 • 36min
Bonus Episode: No Time to Die
Dive into the fascinating world of modern masculinity as reflected in 'No Time to Die.' Explore the evolution of the iconic Bond character and its cultural implications, touching on changing gender and race dynamics. Discover the film's Cold War roots and how it mirrors contemporary geopolitical tensions. The discussion also highlights the franchise’s adaptation to societal shifts, showcasing a more diverse M.I.6 team. Get ready for an engaging analysis that balances nostalgia with fresh perspectives on this beloved cinematic legacy.
6 snips
Oct 4, 2021 • 54min
104. Macbeth
Dive into the dark intrigue of Scotland’s infamous king, Macbeth. Uncover the real history versus Shakespeare's portrayal and explore how the 1849 Astor Place Riot was ignited by a performance of the play. Delve into the turbulent politics of early 11th century Scotland and the cultural impact of Macbeth over centuries. Discover the revolutionary Voodoo Macbeth production that challenged norms with its all-Black cast and hear personal anecdotes that connect theater to historical events. It's a riveting blend of history, drama, and identity!
42 snips
Sep 30, 2021 • 58min
103. The Norse Sagas
Join Dr. Eleanor Barraclough, a Viking history expert from Durham University, as she navigates the fascinating world of Norse sagas. Discover how the Vikings established their unique society in Iceland and their adventurous explorations to America. Unearth the complexities of their transition to Christianity, the significant role of sagas in preserving culture, and the intriguing supernatural elements within these narratives. Delve into the rich tapestry of Viking life and learn how their stories shaped history.
9 snips
Sep 28, 2021 • 1h
102. Germany from Adenauer to Angela
Delve into the fascinating evolution of German leadership from Adenauer to Merkel, featuring colorful personalities and historical upheaval. Discover Willy Brandt's anti-fascist journey and legacy of change. Explore the unique leadership styles of Kohl and Merkel as they navigate a complex political landscape. Unpack Germany's energy policies post-Fukushima and their ties with Russia. All while enjoying witty anecdotes and societal reflections that highlight the vibrant, often humorous side of German politics.
11 snips
Sep 27, 2021 • 56min
101. James Bond
The podcast dives into the history and evolution of James Bond, exploring how the character mirrors changing societal attitudes on masculinity and humor. It compares Bond's cultural relevance to that of Sherlock Holmes and examines the problematic portrayal of women and villains. The discussion humorously touches on quirky imagery from Fleming's works, including product placements. It's a fascinating journey that contrasts classic portrayals with modern interpretations, questioning how Bond can adapt to today's values while keeping his iconic essence.
25 snips
Sep 23, 2021 • 53min
100. Decolonising Africa
Tomiwa Owolade, a writer and critic specializing in African history and politics, delves into the decolonization of Africa, highlighting crucial events and figures like Frantz Fanon. The conversation covers the unifying moments of the pan-African movement, the violent struggles for independence, and the complexities of forging stable nations from diverse ethnic backgrounds. They also examine the legacy of colonialism on contemporary Africa and the ongoing influence of foreign powers, particularly through the lens of historic cases like the Congo.
35 snips
Sep 21, 2021 • 59min
99. Thermopylae & Salamis Episode 2
The podcast dives into the legendary battles of Thermopylae and Salamis, exploring how these conflicts shaped Western civilization. It highlights Leonidas' heroic stand against overwhelming Persian forces, emphasizing themes of honor and sacrifice. The strategic genius of Themistocles is discussed, questioning Greece's victory without his leadership. The challenges faced by Xerxes and the naval clash at Salamis showcase the importance of tactics over numbers. Personal reflections on Herodotus and the broader implications of these events add a layer of depth to the historical narrative.
43 snips
Sep 20, 2021 • 56min
98. Thermopylae & Salamis Episode 1
In 480 BC, 300 Spartans made a legendary stand at Thermopylae against the Persian army, sparking tales of bravery and sacrifice. Soon after, the Greeks achieved a surprising victory at Salamis, shifting the balance of power in the war. The discussion also delves into the rich historical significance of these battles, drawing connections to modern economic strategies and political dynamics. Amidst the serious topics, the hosts add a humorous twist, reflecting on past episodes and the mixing of ancient and contemporary narratives.
47 snips
Sep 16, 2021 • 1h 18min
97. Top Ten Mistresses
Join Tom Holland and guest Ali Ansari, a renowned Professor of Iranian Studies, as they dive into the captivating world of history's most influential mistresses. They discuss how these women, often starting from humble beginnings, shaped political landscapes, with figures like Cleopatra and Emma Hamilton taking center stage. The conversation highlights the societal perceptions of these relationships, including Nell Gwynn's rise from orange seller to royal mistress. Ansari illustrates how these powerful women navigated patriarchal structures to leave their mark on history.
