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
52 snips
Mar 9, 2022 • 38min
161. Yeltsin, Economic Chaos and President Putin
Dive into the chaotic 1990s in Russia, when Boris Yeltsin's leadership turned him into a global laughing stock. Discover the stark divide between the struggling populace and the rising oligarchs amid economic turmoil. Learn how the brutal realities of war and public sentiment paved the way for Putin's ascent to power. Personal stories shed light on mental health issues faced by ordinary Russians, highlighting the impact of this tumultuous era on their lives. It's a riveting look at how past crises shaped modern-day Russia.
28 snips
Mar 8, 2022 • 32min
160. The Fall of the Soviet Union
Explore the dramatic events surrounding the Soviet Union's collapse, from Yeltsin's tumultuous rise to power to the chaotic 1991 coup attempt against Gorbachev. Delve into the pivotal moment of the Russian Revolution's 70th anniversary, where reformist and hardline factions clashed. Discover how secret agreements among Belarus, Ukraine, and Russia signaled the union's end and set the stage for Putin's emergence. This journey through late Soviet drama reveals how choices shaped history and the challenges of transitioning to democracy.
53 snips
Mar 7, 2022 • 36min
159. Young Putin, the KGB and the Soviet Union
Dive into the intriguing early years of Vladimir Putin, exploring his formative life under the shadows of the KGB. Discover the chaotic transition from Brezhnev to Gorbachev and how it shaped Putin's worldview. Discuss the complex dynamics of leadership as the Soviet Union faltered and the role of ideology in political thought. Uncover Putin's observations from East Germany during a pivotal time in history, and see how these experiences set the stage for his rise to power.
26 snips
Mar 3, 2022 • 57min
158. Killer Fashion
In this discussion, Dr. Alison Matthews David, a fashion historian and author, dives into the dark side of historical fashion trends. She shares the lethal risks associated with Victorian garments like crinolines and hobble skirts, recounting poignant stories of individuals who faced dire consequences. The conversation also highlights the toxic history of hat-making, including the dangers of mercury and harmful dyes. Dr. Matthews emphasizes the hidden costs of fashion that echo from the past to present, connecting toxic materials to modern industry practices.
54 snips
Mar 1, 2022 • 49min
157. Byzantium and the Ghosts of Rome
Explore the intriguing aftermath of the Roman Empire's fall as it echoes through modern geopolitics. Discover the rise of Emperor Heraclius and the pivotal moments that shaped his tumultuous reign. Engage in a witty comparison of modern figures like Prince Charles and their Roman counterparts, adding a lighthearted touch to history. Delve into the complexities of power dynamics with Charlemagne and the Holy Roman Empire, shedding light on how the legacy of Rome continues to influence contemporary identity and political aspirations.
75 snips
Feb 28, 2022 • 55min
156. When did the Roman Empire fall?
Tom and Dominic dive into the intriguing decline of the Roman Empire, challenging the idea that it fell abruptly in 476 AD. They explore the rich cultural and economic differences between the Eastern and Western empires, along with key historical figures like Romulus and Augustus. The conversation also connects historical events to modern challenges, including mental health and societal shifts. They reveal how Christianity influenced governance and the legacy of the Byzantine Empire, emphasizing Rome's lasting impact on history.
128 snips
Feb 23, 2022 • 1h 17min
155. Ukraine and Russia
The discussion dives deep into the tumultuous history between Ukraine and Russia, unraveling tales from Viking conquests to the rise of Kievan Rus. Key historical figures like Bogdan Khmelnytsky and Mazepa are analyzed, revealing their impacts on national identity. The podcast also explores significant events like the Holodomor and the Orange Revolution, emphasizing Ukraine's struggle for independence. Amid serious themes, there's a focus on the complex narratives surrounding identity and resilience, alongside lighter historical anecdotes.
41 snips
Feb 21, 2022 • 1h 4min
154. The Most Disastrous Party in History
Discover the most disastrous parties in history! From the infamous Fyre Festival to the chaotic coronation of Nicholas and Alexandra, the hosts rank calamities with humor. Dive into tales of political scandals and the wild extravagance of figures like Emperor Elagabalus. Unearth tragic events where gatherings turned deadly and the stark contrasts between celebration and catastrophe. With each story, you'll laugh at the folly of human gatherings, connecting historical mishaps to modern-day reflections.
16 snips
Feb 18, 2022 • 30min
153. God and the American Empire
Andrew Preston, a professor of history at the University of Cambridge and an expert on American history and religion, joins the conversation to explore the intertwining of faith and American identity. They delve into why anti-clericalism is rare in the U.S., the rise of religious belief, and whether the Cold War was a religious crusade. The discussion touches on American Exceptionalism, the Marketplace of Faith, and questions the historical accuracy of terms like 'U.S. isolationism.' Preston's insights illuminate the pivotal role religion plays in shaping U.S. foreign policy.
35 snips
Feb 17, 2022 • 46min
152. American Crusades
In this engaging discussion, Andrew Preston, a Cambridge University professor specializing in religion's role in war and diplomacy, delves into America's complex relationship with faith and conflict. He explores how early settlers' beliefs influenced military actions and diplomacy, shaping notions like Manifest Destiny. Preston further examines Christianity's profound effect on American imperialism during the 19th century and the moral dilemmas faced by historical leaders, revealing the intricate ties between faith and national identity.
