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
Jan 28, 2021 • 55min
18. The North South Divide
Join Dan Jackson, author of "The Northumbrians" and former advisor to Cheryl Cole, as he discusses the intricate North-South divide in England with hosts Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook. They explore whether Northerners feel more akin to Scots and Welsh than to Londoners. Dan shares insights on regional identities, the historical influences of the Danelaw, and how words like 'dinner' and 'tea' vary by area. The conversation humorously weaves together meal traditions and cultural tensions, shedding light on England's rich tapestry of heritage.
50 snips
Jan 25, 2021 • 49min
17. Fascism
The discussion dives into the intriguing origins of fascism, highlighting its emergence in post-World War I Italy under Mussolini and the allure of Roman symbolism. An exploration of modernist literature reveals its surprising connections to fascist ideologies and Nietzsche's philosophy. Humorously contrasting contemporary clothing choices, the speakers tackle serious questions about fascism's relevance today. They also clarify the differences between fascism and authoritarianism, reflecting on their historical impacts and the ethical responsibilities of historians.
125 snips
Jan 21, 2021 • 51min
16. Pompeii
Join Dr. Sophie Hay, a leading expert and archaeologist with 25 years at Pompeii, as she unravels the mysteries of this ancient city. She discusses the vibrant daily life before the eruption, the rich tapestry of social dynamics, and the ethical dilemmas of interpreting erotic art and preserved victims. Exciting recent discoveries, like an ancient bar with culinary delights, also highlight ongoing excavations. The conversation touches on the complexities of blending tourism with research and what Pompeii reveals about our history.
18 snips
Jan 18, 2021 • 46min
15. Walls and Borders
Delve into the fascinating history of barriers, from the Great Wall of China to modern borders. Discover the evolution of security and technology in relation to migration. Analyze the effectiveness and cultural significance of structures like the Berlin Wall. Explore the emotional implications of walls on identity and belonging, while questioning their true purpose. Lastly, examine the intriguing case of Kaliningrad, revealing how enclaves challenge our understanding of borders today.
38 snips
Jan 11, 2021 • 59min
14. Historical Fiction
The discussion dives into the intricate balance between historical accuracy and compelling storytelling in historical fiction. Key authors like Patrick O'Brien and Charles Dickens are highlighted for their impactful contributions. Themes of moral ambiguity and imperialism are explored through notable works like 'I, Claudius.' The conversation also addresses the evolving perceptions of authors' responsibilities in shaping modern history narratives. Personal anecdotes and the complexities of teaching provocative literature add depth to the conversation.
101 snips
Jan 7, 2021 • 1h 3min
13. Stephen Fry and Troy
Stephen Fry, a polymath and author of a book on the Trojan War, joins Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook to dive into Greek myths. They explore the complex characters of the Trojan War, reflecting on how Homer's works and archaeological finds reshape historical narratives. The conversation touches on the emotional impact of classical literature, especially the Iliad, and its resonance with modern themes. Fry eloquently discusses the balance of comedy and mortality in storytelling and the enduring legacy of myths in contemporary culture.
31 snips
Jan 4, 2021 • 48min
12. Conspiracy Theories
Delve into the wild world of conspiracy theories, from historical plots to recent vaccine myths. The hosts share quirky insights into famous conspiracies like JFK’s assassination and the Watergate scandal. Explore the psychological allure behind these narratives and how they shape identity and politics. Uncover the dark roots of social media's role in spreading these tales and why they captivate us so intensely. Plus, enjoy some amusing takes on celebrity conspiracies and the impact on our cultural landscape.
44 snips
Dec 28, 2020 • 45min
11. Brexit
As Britain navigates its exit from the EU, historical parallels take center stage. The discussion dives into past events, like the Roman departure in 410 A.D., shedding light on national identity and sovereignty. Geographical influences on Britain’s sense of self are explored, along with surprising connections to Shakespeare’s characters amid modern debates. The episode highlights how historical narratives define today’s political climate, revealing the intricate relationship between Britain and Europe throughout time.
95 snips
Dec 21, 2020 • 40min
10. Christmas
Explore the origins of Christmas, from ancient festivals like Saturnalia to its commercialization today. Dive into personal stories of holiday mishaps and nostalgic traditions that embody the season's spirit. Unravel the contrasting Nativity narratives in the Gospels and their deeper meanings. Discover how the holiday evolved through history, the influence of iconic figures, and the significance of Christmas truces during World War I, showcasing moments of humanity amid conflict. It's a journey through time, laughter, and heartfelt reflections!
124 snips
Dec 14, 2020 • 46min
9. Causes of the First World War
Delve into the intricate web of alliances that pulled Britain into World War I, sparked by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. The naval arms race between Britain and Germany reveals rising tensions, underscored by fears of imperial decline. Discover the psychological mindset of leaders and the military calculations leading to inevitable conflict. The legacy of the war in art and media questions its necessity while revealing veterans' complex reactions. Finally, explore common misconceptions about the war’s nature, contrasting naïve perceptions with harsh realities.
