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 or start a free trial today on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/therestishistory.
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 or start a free trial today on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/therestishistory.
For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
40 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 15min
Russian Spies, Pigeons, and The Rest Is Classified…
Gordon Carrera, BBC security correspondent and co-host of The Rest is Classified, dives into the intriguing world of espionage. He reveals how a Russian spy managed to infiltrate elite circles in London and New York, exploring tales from the height of 'Londongrad.' The discussion highlights the underestimated Anna Chapman and the lavish lifestyles of wealthy Russians. Pigeons, surprisingly, emerge as unlikely heroes in wartime communication, showcasing their significant role in espionage history. Don't miss this captivating blend of intrigue and history!
257 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 59min
533. Wojtek: The Bear Who Beat the Nazis
Discover the heartwarming tale of Wojtek, the bear who joined Polish soldiers during WWII. From a cub nursed on vodka to a beloved military mascot, his story is one of bravery and companionship. Wojtek carried ammunition in the battle of Monte Cassino, bringing comic relief and morale to the troops. His unique bond with the soldiers showcases the resilience of both man and animal amidst the horrors of war. Explore the touching legacy of this extraordinary bear and his impact on history.
239 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 1h 1min
532. Hitler's War on Poland: The Fall of Warsaw (Part 3)
The podcast delves into the harrowing Nazi invasion of Poland, showcasing Warsaw's tragic fall under relentless bombing. It captures the indomitable spirit of the Polish people and highlights a valiant stand at Westerplatter, where 200 soldiers faced overwhelming odds. The discussion unmasks myths around Polish cavalry while revealing the brutal shift in warfare. Personal accounts and military strategies illustrate the devastating impact on civilians, particularly the Jewish community, turning Poland into a scene of chaos and destruction.
271 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 1h 3min
531. Hitler's War on Poland: The Pact with Stalin (Part 2)
The podcast delves into Hitler's dramatic pivot toward Stalin, forming a shocking alliance to invade Poland. It explores the intense pressure and emotional turmoil Hitler faced before his declaration of war, igniting World War II. The discussion highlights the rise of fascism in Europe, contrasting it with the faltering democracies of the time. The narrative details the intriguing dynamics of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact and the geopolitical landscape that led to the catastrophic conflict. A gripping exploration of one of history's darkest moments!
610 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 59min
530. Hitler’s War on Poland: Countdown to Armageddon (Part 1)
Discover the chilling lead-up to Hitler's invasion of Poland, driven by both economic desperation and a fervent desire for expansion. Delve into the oppressive atmosphere in Germany as nationalism surged, while marginalized groups suffered. Explore Czechoslovakia's tumultuous struggle for independence amid Nazi manipulation. Understand Chamberlain's difficult choices and Poland's fragile diplomacy as tensions escalated. The planning of the invasion reveals a shocking underestimation of conflict and the sinister relationship between Hitler and Stalin.
228 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 57min
529. The Nazis' Road to War: Showdown in Munich (Part 2)
In September 1938, Neville Chamberlain embarked on a risky mission to meet Hitler in Munich, hoping to avert war over Czechoslovakia. The negotiations revealed Chamberlain's naivety as he left convinced of Hitler's reliability, unaware of the looming aggression. The discussions highlighted the despair of Czech leaders sidelined in these decisions. Tensions erupted into a dramatic narrative as the possibility of war loomed. The fallout from the Munich Agreement left Czechoslovakia feeling betrayed, marking critical miscalculations and setting the stage for World War II.
400 snips
Jan 6, 2025 • 1h 1min
528. The Nazis' Road to War: Hitler Prepares to Strike (Part 1)
Hitler's powerful speech in 1938 at the Nazi Party Congress sets a dark tone as he stirs fears for the Sudeten Germans. The manipulative tactics he employs are dissected, revealing his ambitions for Czechoslovakia as a stepping stone for war. The strategic importance of Czechoslovakia amid rising tensions is highlighted, with insights into Hitler's personal motivations and regional complexities. We explore the Munich crisis and the internal conflicts within the German military, culminating in Chamberlain's tense meeting with Hitler as the world edges closer to conflict.
121 snips
Jan 2, 2025 • 1h 6min
527. Beethoven: Napoleon and the Music of War LIVE at the Royal Albert Hall
Explore the fascinating life of Beethoven and his tumultuous relationship with Napoleon as the backdrop for his music. Discover how the chaotic political climate influenced his compositions, reflecting themes of heroism and struggle. The podcast dives into specific works that embody the echoes of war, illustrating how Beethoven's genius emerged amidst personal and historical strife. Join a lively discussion that connects art with history, revealing Beethoven's profound commentary on his times.
204 snips
Dec 30, 2024 • 1h 9min
526. Mozart: History's Greatest Prodigy LIVE at the Royal Albert Hall
Explore the extraordinary life of Mozart, the musical prodigy born in Salzburg. Discover his astonishing achievements as a child, including his first concerto at just four. Delve into his transition to freelancing, a bold move that sparked both love and artistic expression. Uncover the complex relationships and financial struggles he faced as he wrote masterpieces like The Magic Flute and the haunting Requiem. The vibrant live performances emphasize the emotional depth of his music, celebrating a legacy that still resonates today.
165 snips
Dec 25, 2024 • 1h 4min
525. Charlemagne: Emperor of the West (Part 3)
Charlemagne's coronation on Christmas Day 800 AD marked a pivotal return of emperors to the West. The episode dives into the political turmoil following Pope Hadrian's death and Charlemagne's strategic maneuvering amid power struggles. Notably, it contrasts his rise with Empress Irene's radical rule in Constantinople. The discussion also covers Charlemagne's enduring legacy, his physical portrayal by biographer Einhard, and the fragmentation of power that followed his reign, ultimately shaping the future of the Franks.
