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
59 snips
May 24, 2021 • 1h
56. Nero
Dive into the tumultuous life of Nero, a ruler shaped by artistry and ambition. Unpack the complexities of his legacy as a perceived villain, exploring how history and propaganda have colored his narrative. Discover shocking familial dynamics, particularly with his mother Agrippina, and the intricate dance between power and performance. From controversies surrounding the Great Fire of Rome to the enduring myths that echo through time, Nero emerges as an enigmatic figure who continues to captivate our imagination.
8 snips
May 22, 2021 • 21min
55. The World Cup of Gods - Preview
Dive into a whimsical tournament where ancient deities clash in the World Cup of Gods! The hosts hilariously debate the strengths of mythological figures like Loki and Athena, comparing them to modern sports competitors. Expect witty analysis of who might take the crown and insights into historical significance. Plus, there's a fun call to listeners to vote on their favorite matchups. It's a creative take on mythology mixed with pop culture that promises plenty of laughs and interesting insights!
41 snips
May 20, 2021 • 56min
54. Cromwell and the Protectorate
Join Paul Lay, an expert on Oliver Cromwell and author of *Providence Lost*, as he dives into the tumultuous era of the British Republic with hosts Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook. They challenge the dual perceptions of Cromwell as a hero and a tyrant. Discover the political upheaval during the Protectorate, Richard Cromwell's brief and troubled leadership, and the contentious legacy of military campaigns in Ireland. Their lively discussion also connects Cromwell’s impact to modern political landscapes, including parallels with figures like Margaret Thatcher.
May 17, 2021 • 59min
53. Game of Thrones
Dive into the rich connections between medieval history and the fantasy world of Game of Thrones. Explore how the series impacts our understanding of power, morality, and colonialism, all while juxtaposing themes of violence with real historical contexts. The hosts share personal anecdotes about the books and critically analyze the portrayal of characters, including the morally complex Daenerys Targaryen. Plus, enjoy a light-hearted take on the differing narrative styles of George R.R. Martin and Tolkien!
112 snips
May 13, 2021 • 54min
51. Aztecs
Award-winning writer and professor Camilla Townsend, author of "Fifth Sun: A New History of the Aztecs," joins the discussion to illuminate the complexities of the Aztec civilization. They debunk myths about the Spanish conquest and reveal the resilience of the Aztecs in preserving their culture. Townsend delves into the significance of human sacrifice within a rich cultural context, while also tracing the intricate history of Tenochtitlan as a vibrant capital. This conversation reshapes our understanding of the Aztecs, emphasizing their unique identity amidst enduring challenges.
10 snips
May 10, 2021 • 48min
50. Teenagers
Dive into the world of modern teenagers and discover why they perplex older generations. Explore the historical roots of the teenage identity and cultural shifts since the 1940s. Uncover the evolution of youth culture, from the rebellious spirits of James Dean to today's activism. Understand the complexities of teen experiences during turbulent times, including the duality of idealism under oppressive regimes. It’s a fascinating blend of humor and insightful reflections on what it means to be young in society.
May 6, 2021 • 46min
49. Food Glorious Food
In this lively discussion, Pen Vogler, an expert on British culinary history and author of "Scoff: A History of Food and Class in Britain," joins Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook. They dive into the fascinating evolution of British cuisine, highlighting its complex class influences and the role of foreign ingredients. The trio debates the origins of curry, the quirky history of cooking pigs and chickens, and the iconic full English breakfast. They even tackle the myths surrounding the sandwich, revealing its rich backstory. Food has never been more deliciously dynamic!
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.
