From Lockdown Hobby to Aussie Obsession: Dominic Sandbrook & Tom Holland on History, PMs & Cook
ADVERTISEMENT
2025-08-21
Couriermail
The Rest Is History, the podcast captivating listeners worldwide, has a particularly fervent following in Australia. Hosts Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland join us to dissect their unexpected success down under, revealing why they were genuinely surprised by the Aussie love for their deep dives into the past.
But it's not just about popularity. Sandbrook and Holland are firm believers in understanding history on its own terms, resisting the urge to judge past actions through a modern lens. They tackle this philosophy head-on, exploring the complexities of historical figures and events, from British prime ministers to the controversial legacy of Captain Cook.
What began as a simple lockdown project just five years ago has blossomed into a global phenomenon. The Rest Is History podcast has evolved into a cornerstone of historical discussion, attracting a dedicated audience hungry for insightful analysis and engaging storytelling. We delve into the podcast's journey, uncovering the secrets behind its remarkable growth and the enduring appeal of exploring the past.
Why Australia Loves The Rest Is History
The hosts were taken aback by the strength of the Australian audience. "We were quite astonished, actually," Sandbrook admits. "We hadn't really anticipated it would be quite so popular in Australia. But it seems to have really taken off." Holland adds, "It’s fantastic. We love hearing from Australian listeners." What is it about the podcast that resonates so strongly with an Australian audience? Perhaps it's the universal fascination with history, or maybe it's the engaging and accessible style of Sandbrook and Holland. Whatever the reason, The Rest Is History has found a loyal and enthusiastic following in Australia.
The hosts were taken aback by the strength of the Australian audience. "We were quite astonished, actually," Sandbrook admits. "We hadn't really anticipated it would be quite so popular in Australia. But it seems to have really taken off." Holland adds, "It’s fantastic. We love hearing from Australian listeners." What is it about the podcast that resonates so strongly with an Australian audience? Perhaps it's the universal fascination with history, or maybe it's the engaging and accessible style of Sandbrook and Holland. Whatever the reason, The Rest Is History has found a loyal and enthusiastic following in Australia.
Judging the Past: A Delicate Balance
A key tenet of The Rest Is History is the refusal to apply modern values and moral standards to historical figures and events. "It's very important not to judge the past by modern standards," Sandbrook explains. "People were living in different times, with different beliefs and values. It's unfair to condemn them for not living up to our current expectations." This approach allows for a more nuanced and understanding exploration of history, acknowledging the complexities and contradictions of the past. It encourages listeners to consider the context in which events occurred, rather than simply labeling them as 'good' or 'bad'.
A key tenet of The Rest Is History is the refusal to apply modern values and moral standards to historical figures and events. "It's very important not to judge the past by modern standards," Sandbrook explains. "People were living in different times, with different beliefs and values. It's unfair to condemn them for not living up to our current expectations." This approach allows for a more nuanced and understanding exploration of history, acknowledging the complexities and contradictions of the past. It encourages listeners to consider the context in which events occurred, rather than simply labeling them as 'good' or 'bad'.
Captain Cook and the Controversies of Empire
The podcast doesn't shy away from difficult topics. Captain Cook, a figure both celebrated and criticised, is a prime example. The hosts acknowledge the complexities of Cook's legacy, exploring his achievements as an explorer while also confronting the devastating impact of European colonisation on Indigenous Australians. This willingness to grapple with uncomfortable truths is a hallmark of The Rest Is History.
The podcast doesn't shy away from difficult topics. Captain Cook, a figure both celebrated and criticised, is a prime example. The hosts acknowledge the complexities of Cook's legacy, exploring his achievements as an explorer while also confronting the devastating impact of European colonisation on Indigenous Australians. This willingness to grapple with uncomfortable truths is a hallmark of The Rest Is History.
From Lockdown to Legacy: The Future of the Podcast
The Rest Is History's journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. What started as a casual lockdown project has transformed into a globally recognised podcast, sparking conversations and inspiring a new generation of history enthusiasts. The hosts remain committed to their mission of making history accessible and engaging for everyone.
The Rest Is History's journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. What started as a casual lockdown project has transformed into a globally recognised podcast, sparking conversations and inspiring a new generation of history enthusiasts. The hosts remain committed to their mission of making history accessible and engaging for everyone.
