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
212 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 56min
633. Joan of Arc: Saviour of France (Part 2)
Dive into the gripping tale of Joan of Arc, the peasant girl turned warrior. Explore her bold mission to save France, including her dramatic meeting with the Dauphin and her fervent charisma that won over the court. Discover her unique choice to don armor and wield a sword, leading a convoy to Orléans. Experience the miraculous wind that aided her army's crossing and the fierce battles that followed, ending in the victorious lifting of the siege and a surge of hope for the French crown.
251 snips
Jan 5, 2026 • 1h 9min
632. Joan of Arc: Warrior Maid (Part 1)
Explore the incredible life of Joan of Arc, from her humble beginnings as a peasant girl to her rise as a military heroine. Discover how her divine visions propelled her to meet the Dauphin and influence the course of the Hundred Years' War. The hosts delve into the English perception of Joan as a witch and a threat, while also discussing the political turmoil within France. Her vow of chastity and bold dress as a warrior add unique layers to her story. Unearth the layers of history that surround this legendary figure and her pivotal role.
93 snips
Jan 1, 2026 • 1h 13min
631. Wagner: LIVE at the Royal Albert Hall
Dive into the life of Richard Wagner, a figure whose brilliance and egotism sparked scandal and controversy. Explore how his mythic operas intertwine with politics, including unsettling ties to Nazism. Experience a live performance of iconic pieces like the 'Ride of the Valkyries.' Discover Wagner's revolutionary spirit, financial struggles, and the theatrical innovations of Bayreuth. The discussion even links Wagner's motifs to Tolkien, navigating the complexities of his legacy in both music and culture.
131 snips
Dec 29, 2025 • 1h 19min
630. Tchaikovsky: LIVE at the Royal Albert Hall
Dive into the fascinating world of Tchaikovsky, exploring the complex origins of Russia's famed composer. Uncover the emotional turmoil that shaped his romantic music and his tumultuous relationships, including an impulsive marriage he quickly regretted. Experience live performances of his masterpieces, like 'None But the Lonely Heart' and the iconic '1812 Overture.' Reflect on his legacy, from his patronage to his mysterious death, revealing Tchaikovsky as one of the most brilliant and tragic figures in music history.
191 snips
Dec 25, 2025 • 59min
629. WWI: The Christmas Truce
Discover the touching story of the Christmas Truce of 1914, where soldiers on both sides momentarily put down their weapons. Explore eyewitness accounts of handshakes and shared moments amidst the trenches. Delve into whether the famous football matches across no-man's land really happened, and what they symbolize. Learn about the cultural impact of the truce and why it faded despite its hopeful beginnings. The discussion highlights contrasts between wartime camaraderie and the harsh realities of continued conflict.
430 snips
Dec 22, 2025 • 1h 36min
628. Jack The Ripper: The Killer Unmasked (Part 5)
Dive into the chilling saga of Jack the Ripper as the hosts unveil prime suspects ranging from mad theories to royal cover-ups. They dissect the killer's sudden halt and explore bizarre claims about famous figures like Prince Albert Victor and Walter Sickert. With a nod to police investigations, they assess multiple candidates including George Chapman and Aaron Kosminski, and explain why a local butcher might be the most likely culprit. Prepare for a rollercoaster through history's darkest mysteries!
204 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 1h 10min
627. Jack The Ripper: From Hell (Part 4)
Delve into the chilling details of Jack the Ripper's final murder, where the heartbreaking story of Mary Jane Kelly unfolds. The hosts dissect the gruesome nature of her mutilation and what made this crime particularly horrifying. Explore her intriguing life, her relationships, and the societal impact of the killings. The discussion highlights how the media shaped public perception, leading to amateur sleuthing and a growing distrust in the police. Finally, ponder the legacy of the Ripper as the first modern serial killer in an age of rising anxieties.
181 snips
Dec 15, 2025 • 59min
626. Jack The Ripper: The Killer Strikes Again (Part 3)
Dive into the chilling world of Jack the Ripper, exploring how he managed to strike multiple times in a single night. Discover the gruesome details of the murders in Mitre Square and the perplexing background of victims like Elizabeth Stride and Catherine Eddowes. The hosts unravel various witness accounts and unpack the controversial Masonic conspiracy theory, while also examining the press's role in fueling public panic. With a glimpse into the infamous letters sent by the killer, join them as they piece together the lasting mystery of this historical figure.
250 snips
Dec 11, 2025 • 1h 7min
625. Jack The Ripper: Horror in Whitechapel (Part 2)
Dive into the chilling case of Jack the Ripper as the hosts explore his second victim's brutal murder and the ensuing police investigation. Discover how sensationalized press coverage fueled public hysteria and shaped the narrative around the infamous killer. Unravel the socio-economic conditions of Victorian Whitechapel, and learn about the pivotal role of key figures like Inspector Abberline. The exploration includes details of the 'From Hell' letter, the Ripper's audacious methods, and the growing atmosphere of fear that consumed the East End.
91 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 55min
The Beatles: The British Invasion, with Conan O’Brien (Part 2)
Conan O’Brien, comedian and former late-night TV host, joins Tom to explore the turbulent final years of the Beatles. They delve into John Lennon’s controversial 'more popular than Jesus' remark and the intense backlash that followed. The discussion shifts to the band's innovative studio work, reflecting on their groundbreaking albums like *Sgt. Pepper*. Conan also shares insights into the impact of Brian Epstein's death and the evolution of tensions within the group, ultimately celebrating the enduring legacy of the Beatles with *Abbey Road*.
