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
506 snips
Jun 8, 2025 • 1h 4min
572. The Medici: Masters of Florence (Part 1)
Discover the glittering origins of the Medici family and their ascent to power in Florence during the Renaissance. Unpack the cunning strategies of Cosimo de' Medici, the family's Godfather, as he navigates political turmoil and rivalry. Marvel at Florence's breathtaking architecture, like the Duomo, symbolizing the city's relentless ambition. Explore how the Medici's patronage spurred cultural revival and transformed Florence into a vibrant financial hub. The story is filled with beauty, betrayal, and a legacy that still captivates!
225 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 58min
571. Hannibal: Roman Bloodbath at Cannae (Part 4)
Explore the devastating aftermath of the Battle of Cannae, a pivotal moment in military history. Discover how Hannibal's ingenious tactics turned the tide against Rome, leading to horrific casualties. Dive into Roman infantry tactics and their battle formations, revealing the complexity of their strategies. Uncover the psychological dynamics of the time and how local populations swayed in their loyalties. The intense battle dynamics and Hannibal's strategic mastery offer insights that continue to resonate in modern warfare.
256 snips
Jun 1, 2025 • 56min
570. Hannibal: The Invasion of Italy (Part 3)
Discover the audacious crossing of the Alps by Hannibal and his troops. Explore the sacrifices endured by his army and the psychological transformation under his leadership. Delve into his tactical genius as he engages the Romans in a dramatic showdown at the Trebbia River. Witness the intricacies of Hannibal's strategies in Italy, including his clever recruitment of local tribes and the bold ambush against Roman forces. Uncover the political upheaval in Rome as they respond to Hannibal's relentless advance.
356 snips
May 28, 2025 • 58min
569. Hannibal: Elephants Cross the Alps (Part 2)
Discover the audacious tactics behind Hannibal's epic crossing of the Alps with elephants. Explore his strategic brilliance as he defied the odds to confront Rome during the Second Punic War. Delve into the logistical nightmares faced by his diverse army and the psychological impact of elephants on enemy forces. Learn about local alliances that shaped his daring plans and the challenges he overcame, from hostile tribes to treacherous terrains. Experience the legacy of a military genius who reshaped history with each bold move.
428 snips
May 25, 2025 • 56min
568. Hannibal: Rome's Greatest Enemy (Part 1)
Discover the brilliance and flaws of Hannibal, Rome's greatest enemy, as his rise from personal tragedy shapes his quest for vengeance. Uncover the strategic maneuvers of Hamilcar Barca, the mastermind behind Carthage's resurgence, and the tense backdrop leading to epic battles against Rome. Explore Hannibal's character, likening him to modern icons, while detailing the rivalry that became a cornerstone of ancient history. The podcast dives deep into the drama and stakes of their legendary conflict.
233 snips
May 21, 2025 • 1h 5min
567. The Great Northern War: Murder in Moscow (Part 4)
Peter the Great's reign transformed Russia into a European power but came at a personal cost. The podcast explores his eccentric court, highlighted by a humorous dwarf wedding that marked the absurdity of his rule. Tensions rise as Peter's relationship with his son Alexis turns tragic, culminating in a harrowing tale of betrayal and manipulation. The dramatic pursuit of Alexis, who fled to Vienna, underscores the fragility of loyalty and power in a turbulent era, providing a poignant reflection on the dark side of familial ties and authority.
175 snips
May 18, 2025 • 1h 2min
566. The Great Northern War: Slaughter on the Steppes (Part 3)
Discover the gripping tale of the Battle of Poltava, a turning point in European history. Learn about Charles XII's audacious invasion of Russia and the intense challenges faced by his Swedish troops. Explore the chaos following the battle and the impact on Peter the Great's reforms. A humorous encounter of Peter at a German spa adds levity amid the turmoil of war. Imagine a world where Sweden triumphed and the geopolitical landscape shifted dramatically. The richly woven narratives are both dramatic and enlightening.
235 snips
May 14, 2025 • 1h 7min
565. The Great Northern War: Revenge of the Cossacks (Part 2)
Dive into the turmoil of the Great Northern War as Peter the Great faces brutal winter and fierce battles against Sweden. Discover the dramatic betrayal of Ukrainian Cossack leader Ivan Mazepa, whose alliance with Sweden shifts the war's fate. The struggles of the Swedish army reveal the human costs of combat, while royal resolve shines through as Charles XII defies his injuries to inspire his troops. The impending clash at Poltava looms large, shaping the destinies of two mighty monarchs in a historic showdown.
453 snips
May 11, 2025 • 1h 7min
564. The Great Northern War: The Battle of the Baltic (Part 1)
Dive into the Great Northern War, where the fierce rivalry between Sweden's Charles XII and Russia's Peter the Great shook Europe. Discover early miscalculations that led to brutal losses for Denmark. Uncover the havoc caused by Peter's Cossacks in the Baltic and the surprisingly romantic twist of Peter’s marriage to a farm girl. Explore innovative military tactics, the strategic ambitions of both leaders, and the transformative impacts on their nations during this tumultuous period.
199 snips
May 7, 2025 • 1h 2min
563. Peter the Great: Bloodbath in the Kremlin (Part 2)
Dive into the wild escapades of Peter the Great during his unconventional youth in Europe. Discover the antics of his 'Jolly Company' and how these hedonistic pursuits shaped his future as Tsar. Uncover his strategic ambitions to modernize the Russian Navy while cleverly navigating complex political landscapes incognito. From chaotic encounters in London to his controversial reforms, including the shaving of beards, experience the dramatic personal and political upheavals that led to the Great Northern War.
