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
55 snips
May 3, 2021 • 1h 1min
48. The French Revolution
Explore the cultural contrasts between British and French views of the Revolution, enriched by Oscar Wilde's insights. Discover the chaos of the uprising, from economic strife to the roles of key figures like King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. Women’s struggles reveal societal misogyny, while the era of terror showcases dramatic transformations and internal conflicts. Reflect on the brutal violence and ideological turmoil that shaped modern politics and consider the lasting impact of this pivotal moment in history.
50 snips
Apr 29, 2021 • 51min
47. The Seven Years' War
Join a riveting discussion on the Seven Years' War, the defining conflict of the 18th century. Explore naval innovations and blockade strategies that changed warfare forever. Delve into the evolving narratives surrounding British victories and colonial implications, highlighting the complexities of empire. Discover how this war shaped American independence and altered colonial perceptions of authority. This thrilling historical examination uncovers the intricate connections between power, identity, and the lasting global impact of this monumental event.
Apr 26, 2021 • 59min
46. Culture Wars
Dive into the captivating history of culture wars from Ancient Rome to contemporary times. Discover how financial disputes shaped societal conflicts and the ongoing struggle for cultural identity in England. Explore the roots of these wars, linking them to ancient theological debates and modern censorship issues. Unpack the emotional ties to statues and the significance of commemorative imagery. Finally, uncover how the civil rights movement intertwined with Christian values, influencing today’s cultural landscape.
39 snips
Apr 22, 2021 • 54min
45. Top Ten Eunuchs
Dive into the intriguing world of eunuchs, as the hosts explore their significant yet often grim history. From the dark practices of the 10th century to powerful figures like Narcis in Byzantine politics, the narrative intertwines humor with serious themes. Discover how notable eunuchs influenced societies, challenged norms, and left complex legacies. The discussion also touches on peculiar gender transformations and the importance of support systems in personal development, blending historical insights with modern reflections.
33 snips
Apr 19, 2021 • 55min
44. 1066
Dive into the fascinating year of 1066, a pivotal moment that reshaped English history. Explore the dramatic Battle of Hastings and the controversial tale of King Harold’s demise. Discover how the Norman Conquest initiated sweeping cultural shifts and laid the groundwork for modern England. Delve into the heroic struggles between Harold Godwinson and William of Normandy, as well as the infamous Varangian Guard. This captivating discussion reveals the enduring legacy of this year on English identity and the influence of military technology.
38 snips
Apr 15, 2021 • 58min
43. 1940
Historian James Holland, brother of Tom Holland and a WWII expert, dives into the pivotal events of 1940. He sheds light on the Dunkirk evacuation, revealing its significance for Britain's military future. The discussion emphasizes Winston Churchill's rise and inspiring speeches amidst France's turmoil. Holland exposes myths and examines military strategies, while highlighting the political tensions of the time. With insights into leadership dynamics, this conversation paints a vivid picture of one of history's most consequential years.
13 snips
Apr 12, 2021 • 51min
42. The Wild West
Dive into the captivating world of the Wild West, where the truth blurs with myth. Explore legendary figures and the cultural legacy that continues to fascinate us. Discover how classic Western films compare to modern interpretations, challenging our perceptions of heroes and masculinity. Unravel the complexities of history that intertwine with Native American narratives and environmental challenges. Delve into the enduring themes of adventure and survival, while unpacking Frederick Jackson Turner's influential frontier thesis.
53 snips
Apr 8, 2021 • 46min
41. Persia
Join Professor Ali Ansari, an expert in Persian history from St. Andrews University, as he dives deep into the rich legacy of ancient Persia. Discover the civilization's invaluable contributions to Western culture and concepts like duality in religion, rooted in Zoroastrianism. Ansari sheds light on influential figures like Cyrus the Great and the resilience of Persian identity despite political upheaval. The discussion also touches on Persia’s advanced irrigation systems and cultural nuances that shaped the modern world.
Apr 5, 2021 • 43min
40. History as Entertainment
Discover how historical events shape the world of gaming, from Viking themes to British history. The podcast dives into the ethics of representing violence in games and the allure of financial victories in society. Explore the shift of Monopoly from a critique of capitalism to a capitalist icon. Reenactments are discussed as both educational tools and nostalgic entertainment, reflecting complex societal values. Finally, delve into the evolution of board games like Risk, illustrating the interplay between gameplay and historical narratives.
21 snips
Apr 1, 2021 • 45min
39. Elizabeth I
Tracy Borman, a historian specializing in Tudor England and author of "Elizabeth's Women," joins the hosts to dissect the legacy of Elizabeth I. They explore her powerful Tilbury speech during the Spanish Armada threat and her role as a formidable monarch. The discussion highlights Elizabeth's complex relationships, her strategic mastery in unifying religious factions, and how her past shaped her public persona as the 'Virgin Queen.' They also delve into the legacy of her reign and debate which historical figures might compete in a fictional monarch World Cup.
