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
51 snips
Mar 12, 2024 • 50min
428. Titanic: Kings of the World (Part 2)
Discover the lavishness of Titanic, a marvel of the Gilded Age, designed for both the elite and immigrants. Unravel the myths around class treatment aboard as the hosts compare first-class opulence with third-class realities. Dive into the ship's engineering brilliance, yet uncover the tragic lifeboat shortages that fueled its doom. Explore Captain Edward Smith's legacy amid fateful decisions and maritime culture, all while picturing the grandeur that was meant to usher in a new era of luxury at sea.
95 snips
Mar 11, 2024 • 47min
427. Titanic: The Tragedy Begins (Part 1)
Explore the dramatic origins of the Titanic, where ambition and competition shaped its fate. Discover how the era's rivalries—between transatlantic giants and in the shipbuilding industry—set the stage for tragedy. Uncover the influence of key figures like J.P. Morgan and William Pirrie, who navigated a tumultuous political landscape. Delve into the societal impact of the disaster, revealing tensions in Belfast's shipyards and the broader implications of industrial progress. This tale intertwines technology, class struggles, and national pride.
28 snips
Mar 7, 2024 • 58min
426. History's Greatest Monkeys
Dive into the intriguing world of primates, from a military macaque in ancient Rome to a heroic baboon who assisted in World War I. Discover how monkeys became symbols of status and bizarre mascots throughout history. The conversation includes cultural curiosities, like the tragic tale of Michael Jackson's chimp Bubbles and the wild antics of Jacko Macaco in Regency London. Explore Darwin's reflections on Jenny the orangutan and the unique bonds between humans and our primate cousins, revealing amusing narratives and fascinating insights into our shared history.
40 snips
Mar 4, 2024 • 47min
425. The History Of Chocolate
Discover the fascinating journey of chocolate, from its origins with the Olmecs to its luxurious status among Aztecs. Learn about its medicinal uses and humorous historical recommendations for a chocolate breakfast. Explore the pivotal role Quaker families played in making chocolate accessible to the masses. The conversation also delves into the creation of Bourneville, a model village for workers, and discusses the comforting role chocolate has played during tough times, including the Great Depression.
104 snips
Feb 29, 2024 • 54min
424. Carthage vs. Rome: Total War (Part 4)
Delve into the epic clash between Rome and Carthage, where ancient military tactics and the struggle for supremacy ignited the First Punic War. Explore the rise of Rome's formidable army against Carthage's naval prowess. Witness the dramatic resurgence of Carthage under the leadership of Xanthippus and the legendary Hamilcar the Suffet. Revel in the riveting stories of betrayal, resourcefulness, and the legendary oath of Hannibal that would shape future battles. This historical rivalry unfolds with suspense and strategic brilliance.
144 snips
Feb 26, 2024 • 49min
423. Carthage vs. Rome: The Wolf at the Gates (Part 3)
Dive into the epic clash between Carthage and Rome, exploring how Rome transformed from a city recovering from the Gauls' sack to a ruthless military power. Discover the contrasting strengths of Carthaginian wealth and Roman manpower. Learn about key historical figures like Pyrrhus, who predicted the catastrophic war ahead. The podcast dissects vital treaties and military strategies that fueled their rivalry, revealing the cultural shifts that defined a superpower. Misjudgments on both sides set the stage for an inevitable and transformative conflict.
167 snips
Feb 22, 2024 • 54min
422. Ancient Carthage: Rise of a Superpower (Part 2)
Discover the enigmatic rise of ancient Carthage, a city famed for its wealth and naval prowess. Learn about its unique political structure and how it navigated fierce competition from Greek rivals. The podcast delves into the violent aspects of Carthaginian culture, including shocking rituals and military strategies. It also highlights key figures like Hamilcar and Hanno, juxtaposing their ambitious campaigns with the eventual tragedy of their legacy. Explore how Carthage's influence set the stage for an epic rivalry with the emerging power of Rome.
197 snips
Feb 19, 2024 • 58min
421. Ancient Carthage: Lords of the Sea (Part 1)
Discover the fascinating history of Ancient Carthage, a powerful maritime civilization with deep connections to the Phoenicians. Unravel the myths surrounding child sacrifice and explore the legacy of Jezebel, a figure whose story intertwines with the cultural narrative. Learn about the significant role of Tyre and its influence on trade and conflict in the Mediterranean. Delve into the advancements made by the Phoenicians in seafaring and their rich cultural exchanges, shaping the world that ultimately feared and revered Carthage.
83 snips
Feb 16, 2024 • 49min
420. Britain in 1974: Thatcher Enters the Ring (Part 4)
The Guildford Pub Bombings of 1974 cast a dark shadow over Britain, highlighting the political turmoil and crisis of the time. Amidst chaos, Labour's Harold Wilson narrowly retained the prime minister position, but doubts lingered about his ability to steer the nation. Meanwhile, Margaret Thatcher's rise within the Conservative Party began to reshape the political landscape. The aftermath of terrorism and economic decline exacerbated societal fears, setting the stage for a tumultuous era. Humor and tragedy intertwine in this gripping exploration of a pivotal year.
92 snips
Feb 15, 2024 • 1h 3min
419. Britain in 1974: Countdown to a Coup (Part 3)
Harold Wilson's return to power in 1974 Britain unfolds against a backdrop of chaos and strikes. The nation grapples with high inflation, student activism, and conflict with trade unions. Wilson's relationship with his aide adds a personal layer to the political drama, as rumors of his KGB ties swirl. As economic divides deepen, fears of a right-wing coup loom large. Tensions escalate in Northern Ireland, pushing the country to the brink while the government remains caught in a whirlwind of paranoia and public unrest.
