The Rest Is History

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The world’s most popular history podcast, with Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook.Join The Rest Is History Club (www.therestishistory.com) for ad-free listening to the full archive, weekly bonus episodes, live streamed shows and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Here are some of our favourite episodes to get you started:WATERGATE/NIXON apple.co/3JrVl5hALEXANDER THE GREAT apple.co/3Q4FaNkHARDCORE HISTORY'S DAN CARLIN apple.co/3vqkGa3PUTIN & RUSSIA apple.co/3zMtLfX

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Recent Reviews
  • Stay Trim
    I am going back to listen to every episode
    While I listen to many podcasts this is my first review. The discussions on each episode are fascinating and delightful. I am a fan of history but prefer certain time periods. These guys make every period interesting. Can’t get enough of this show!!!!!!
  • zuloagap
    Excellent show
    Great work. Thank you!
  • dence_1234
    Essential educational entertainment
    This show has been one of my go to podcasts for years and it holds up. The friendly banter of the hosts and their expert guests, the variety of topics they cover, and the expertise the hosts bring on their own specialties pays off every time. I’ve been working through it from their first episodes, and I can’t think of a single dud episode out of the hundreds I’ve listened to.
  • VietSchlong
    Grossly dishonest history
    They’re both hacks with political axes to grind
  • Pudelmom
    Henry IV
    Finally! An explanation of the double names!
  • arsocairo
    Best Way To Learn
    This is one of the most informative and historically correct podcast. I’ve ever heard. If you want to learn about world and how we got to be where we are today. You have to give a listen. Get smarter!
  • sam howards
    Now this is podcasting
    Excellent podcast. Great research presented in a conversational manner with an excellent dose of humor.
  • Steve619m
    Awesome!
    If you’re looking for a detailed history of a wide range of topics The Rest is History is for you. The episodes aren’t massive epics like Hardcore History or quick hit single episodes on a single topic usually, more a thoughtful approach. When topics like the French Revolution or the life and last stand of Custer they may do multi-episode series still get not about an hour long. Other topics like history’s best monkeys or some other random pallet cleaning topic will be a single hour long episode. Both hosts bring their own unique perspectives and background to presenting the story and still manage to do with the classic British dry humor. An A+ podcast, absolutely recommend to anyone from history enthusiasts to homeschoolers.
  • 101732
    One of the best podcasts
    Tom Holland sounds like the lead singer of Pet Shop Boys
  • sheri882
    Another one of my faves!
    Being an American, I get tripped on some of the sayings, but this podcast is still great fun!
  • PGL52
    Battle of Agincourt
    Just finished the excellent series on Henry V and the battle of Agincourt. Always enjoy the hosts conversations around some of the more contentious issues. I did have a question……why did the French pick the ground at Agincourt when the topography (the woods protecting the English flanks and the ‘funneling’ effect of the woods tapering towards the English lines) gave the smaller English force the ability to negate the larger French force? Since the French only needed to block the way to Calais, presumably they could have picked a battleground better suited to their force.
  • Merseyside8
    American revolution
    My goodness what a British apologist take. These gentlemen kindly glossed over the true atrocities that took place by the hands of British troops on soon to be Americans. No to mention the undue burdens of which they have several amendments to protect against today. I think any historian would be remised to ignore the very harmful and destructive effects British occupation on those especially in what is now Boston and the northeastern United States. Americans hated King George of course, but I think the idea of a monarch in general was more their main concern. No, the world would not be better off if Britain would have won this war. The idea that they were never going to and “never had a chance from the start”(episode 4) if preposterous and I think everyone can clearly see. They had the largest army in the world by some magnitude, and according to the podcast had significant numbers of royalists in the colony. I’m glad to see most of the world has thrown off the weight of their pompous and self righteous presence.
  • bigwiggy
    Wonderful podcast that is educational and great fun
    From the time I was a boy I have loved reading history. I still do but another wonderful way to learn history is via podcast. I’ve been listening to Dan Carlin‘s hard-core history series for years, which are unforgettable. They are truly long form and require a serious investment in time so they are not for everyone. I’ve recently discovered this wonderful podcast called The Rest is History which is now the most popular podcast on this topic. I believe it because the presenters -both British historians - are wonderfully witty and humorous, and clearly enjoy each other‘s company tremendously. Their infectious love of history comes through loud and clear. Well done and keep it up!
  • ElijahVH
    Humor and History, a Perfect Combo
    Humor and history. What could be a better combination for a podcast? Love listening to these guys chat about anything and everything from the past. That being said, would love an episode on the Cappadocian fathers/mothers (Macrina, Basil, Gregory, Gregory) and their impact on the west (hospitals, poor houses, etc) and/or an episode on the impact of Alcuin of York on education in Europe. Both topics seem like they would be right in Tom’s wheelhouse. In any case, thanks for continuing to put these great episodes out!
  • Traveller and gamer
    Such a fun way to consume history
    I’m a bit of a history geek/dork, but these two make it so much fun. My Scot brother in law introduced me to the podcast. So much fun to listen to history, with a clearly un-American approach, from two well researched, respected, and passionate experts.
  • Jamie Pfeffer
    My favorite podcast
    Soon, podcasts will probably outnumber (but not replace) books. And Dom and Tom make my favorite. Each episode is not just an event for me. It is bigger than that. Because I am dyslexic, at 53, I still struggle to read. Thus “The Rest is History” makes accessible a whole world of history that I have wanted my entire life to know. And by calling their membership “The Rest is History Club”, I feel even more that I have joined a community of like-minded scholars and amateurs (I) whose interests comprise my own. I adore the Club almost as much as I appreciate Dom and Tom for presenting it expertly and passionately.
  • Blondieradred
    Love the history
    I love this podcast. But I have to say the constant digs at Trump are a bit much.
  • jjiusbbbdhag
    The Rest is the Best
    Podcastery at its best! Sure they are so English (not even British)-centric I know way too much about cricket players, Dads Army, Tony Benn etc. and sure they insult my country (US) constantly but I still LOVE THE DOM AND THE TOM! Keep the multi-episodes coming we need a 20-parter!
  • Thisidb
    Love them
    Got a big fan-girl history crush on both of these guys! I could listen all day.
  • Leec8281985
    Essentially all I listen to
    This podcast has become the background soundtrack to my life. Unexpectedly, during a very difficult period of life and transition, this podcast has provided comfort, stimulation, and moments of meaning and connection, and I am grateful for it. No, it isn’t perfect—just like anything—but WOW there are so many really interesting episodes on a complete spectrum of issues, stories, and history for our collective life together. Really looking forward to seeing them live in Boston, and really looking forward to exploring London on an upcoming solo trip with their historical context in mind. Thanks Dominic and Tom! Hopefully a friend of the show😉, Sam
  • Jimbojet8000
    Awesome podcast
    Every show is well-researched, written and produced. Tom and Dominic bring their unique sense of humor to it. Highly recommended.
  • dvffdchygz
    Greeking Out review
    Great podcast
  • Evepop11
    Love this show!
    I’ll admit, I’ve become a bit obsessed with this show! Tom and Dominic spin amazingly well told stories with humor and depth. These two historians bring their wealth of knowledge and meticulous research to their rich and varied episodes. And they’re exceptionally English (a plus!). I’ve been devouring their entire catalog and am hungry for more. Well done, lads!
  • MPrisbrey86
    Love it!
    I love this podcast. It’s my new “every chance I get” podcast. Thanks for putting this out. Keep up the good work.
  • Andy Couturier
    So glad to learn that WWI had nothing to do with economics or global capitalism!
    Listen, I think you two are marvelous entertainers, and I learn a lot of facts, and funny details about how many people are laughable. But I think the thing I was most relieved to learn, after listening to 4 hours or more about the outbreak of WWI, was that imperialism, the carving up of Africa, the power of the socialists in Germany, or arms manufacture had nothing at all to do with the outbreak of the war. Just a jolly good laugh about how absurd those French are, or how many awful terrible tragic mistakes, unavoidable it seems, how pompous and ridiculous the royals in each country were. But, sarcasm aside, the one thing you never covered is if Germany was really all about backing up Austria who were going to “crack on” against Serbia, why were troops moved toward France? I think a good episode could be made unpacking male identity structures (honor, backing down, etc) as a driver for war, and how, just by some coincidence every war ends up with wholesale rape and sexual murder, you know, if you want to just leave capitalism out of it. Again, I enjoyed it, but read a bit of Imanuel Wallerstein, and perhaps leave off the chumminess about Baliol, and Oxford. It just waves the foetid flag of the British class system, which it does seem you two are all in favor of.
  • Awesome driving hind
    Love it!
    Love these guys together. I learn and am entertained at the same time.
  • JGLevi
    British view of history.
    Not merely Euro-centrist in its choice of topics, but narrowly British in outlook, and a snobbish version of that.
  • 💕brener
    Frequent listener
    It’s interesting to hear the UK point of view on history as an American.
  • Fern415
    Christ the butt-kissing
    In the Hapsburg episode is as incomprehensible as it is cringe-worthy. Otherwise, decent.
  • wine$swine
    Favorite podcast
    These two bring so much entertainment and deep insights. Great use of primary sources, historically accurate accents, and witty banter.
  • Mare2322234
    Disappointing
    Disappointing and Superficial As someone with a deep interest in history, I was excited to dive into this podcast. Unfortunately, it fell far short of my expectations. The episodes are disappointingly superficial, barely scratching the surface of complex historical events and often getting basic facts wrong. The inaccuracies are glaring and undermine any educational value the podcast might have had. To make matters worse, the hosts seem to compensate for their lack of depth with silly and juvenile banter. While a bit of humor can lighten the mood, here it comes off as a distraction from the substance—or lack thereof—of the content. If you’re looking for a podcast that takes history seriously and treats its audience with respect, I would suggest looking elsewhere.
  • DarbyDan
    The Beat
    Best history podcast around. Fun and informative.
  • Jarshush
    Fascinating, historical fun!
    Just finished the French Revolution! What a wonderful combination of research , writing, and performance!!!! I know this story very well and yet I learned so much and was often left breathless at the re-telling. Both presenters are excellent! They are knowledgeable and make references to sources where one can learn more. I love they way they manage to weave some of the “usual suspects” into the narrative. This is my new favorite podcast!
  • NYC Susan
    Best History Lessons Ever
    If only they would teach history in school this way , so many more people would know what is going on in the world , and how we got here. I love listening to to these two who are so knowledgeable and clever , and have such a wonderful rappport with each other , and their banter makes you feel like you are right in the room with them , and having a wonderful time learning and laughing. I would suggest this to anyone who loves to expand their education.
  • clarkwgriswoldjr
    Entertaining but biased
    At their best when they delve into history with unrestrained enthusiasm, but for some reason they feel the need to constantly remind listeners of their unwaveringly conservative, WASPish, and generally unoriginal opinions on popular culture (wow a British male who values conformity and understated snobbery!), as if these are somehow missing from the historical narrative? There’s comedic value to an extent, but as a historian it feels like they are reinforcing many negative stereotypes about the field. I wish they’d put a little more effort into representing contemporary historiography.
  • I❤ATTICUS
    Absolutely the Best History Podcast
    This is the best history podcast available. Tom and Dominic’s deep dives and series are incredibly informative and their humor and delivery make listening an absolute joy. If you are a history buff or repressed history professor, “The Rest of History” is a must listen.
  • Don's biggest fan
    Simply sublime!
    This podcast singularly exemplifies the term infotainment. The lads are always well researched, even handed, and thorough. I only wish it was available when I was in school.
  • Southern born Scotsman
    Interesting and Humorous
    I enjoy this show immensely. Thank you for bringing intriguing content for your listeners to enjoy and learn from.
  • HJ Florida
    Great listening
    You really make history come alive!
  • Geoplanter
    French Revolution
    The worst French accent in podcast history! Even Inspector Clouseau laughs at this!
  • angelle226
    Knocking off three stars
    Oh the irony of hating on Harry and Meghan while speaking of the unfair press Louis and Marie Antoinette received. Keep your poorly formed opinions to yourself on this pair because 200 years from now William’s role in their bad press will be well exposed. Also, did you read Harry’s memoir? He wants nothing to do with the crown. And the vitriol against Meghan has roots of misogyny and xenophobia, very similar to Marie Antoinette’s.
  • PhillyJim123
    Stuff your sorry’s in a sack
    I was absolutely enthralled by your Road to the Great War series. It was marvelously done. I must say though, you failed to properly condemn the people that allowed this calamity to proceed. Just because they understood that it was a very bad thing and they were sad about it, that doesn’t make it ok. The monarchs, the political class, the capitalists collectively allowed this calamity. We the common people were the ones who had to pay the price. For that they can not be forgiven and they should be harshly condemned, whether they were very sorry about it or not.
  • Zwanet Hamming
    My favorite
    This is my favorite podcast that’s out there. The presenters are incredibly knowledgeable and besides learning about history, it’s fun. Please keep it up!!!!!
  • TJ8675309
    Car talk for History
    This is maybe the best podcast ever. It boggles my mind how they can know this much about history and be this funny. It’s also endearing how much they seem to enjoy each other. I would love to have a weekly beer with these two friends and talk with them about life and history.
  • Revans50
    Unbelievably Good!
    Love this show. The interplay between Tom and Dominic is always worth listening to. Program suggestion: Have Ty Seidule as a guest talking about his amazing book, Robert E. Lee And Me. This book is eye opening for those who wish to see. Anyway keep up the good work!👍🏻
  • Drwillie
    The best history podcast out there
    Love the variety, love the banter, love the broad spectrum covered. I never miss an episode.
  • EllenMcCarthy
    Wonderful!
    I’m hooked! Thank you !
  • DarloDog
    Five Stars!
    Five Stars boys! Keep up the excellent work - love it! Anglo Abroad
  • JBK94
    The Road to the Great War
    What an outstanding series. Very well done. I enjoyed listening to this during my morning walks. I can’t wait to listen to other historical series.
  • Carlota1800
    The Best of them All!
    Constantly trying, looking, and listening to history podcasts so I can safely say, yours is in first place by a mile. Informative, witty, entertaining, intellectually stimulating! Thank you!
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