The Rest Is History: Trump, Narrative, and the Future of MAGA
Historians Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland, hosts of the phenomenally successful podcast The Rest Is History, have shared their insights on historical consequence, the American Revolution, and the future of Trumpism. The show, named Apple's Show of the Year in 2025, now commands over 20 million monthly streams, covering topics from ancient Rome to modern U.S. politics.
On Historical Consequence
"Donald Trump is a more consequential president than Barack Obama." — Dominic Sandbrook
Sandbrook bases this assessment on Trump's profound impact on political culture, NATO, and the Western alliance—arguing that the scale of disruption outweighs Obama's legacy in terms of lasting structural change.
Tom Holland drew a parallel between Trump and historical titans of charisma: "Like figures such as Napoleon and Caesar, Trump projects a distinct 'vibe' that influences politics."
Both historians agreed on a surprising point: popular culture often outlasts political figures in historical impact. Their cited examples—Mozart and the Beatles—underscore the enduring power of art over governance.
On the American Revolution Episodes
The podcast's coverage of the American Revolution stirred controversy among some American listeners, who perceived it as "pro-British propaganda." Sandbrook pushed back, noting that the sources used were by American historians themselves.
Holland revealed the 250th anniversary of the U.S. will bring future episodes focusing on Washington, Jefferson, Franklin, and Hamilton—indicating more nuanced, balanced coverage ahead.
On the Future of MAGA
"MAGA is a loose coalition that may not survive Trump, but the impulses behind it are deeply rooted in American politics." — Dominic Sandbrook
Sandbrook's analysis suggests the movement's structural fragility, while Holland's characterization points to its emotional and cultural durability:
- Sandbrook: The coalition is contingent on Trump's personal leadership
- Holland: Trumpism will likely persist as a style or mood of politics
Both see the underlying forces as having deep roots that will outlast any single figure.
On Academia and Narrative History
Sandbrook offered a revealing critique of modern academia, recalling a tutor who told him to "cure himself of his addiction to narrative." This clash between academic trends and popular historical engagement reflects a core tension in the field.
Both hosts emphasized that their love of history began in childhood—with stories and castles, not theories and methodologies.
Future Plans
The Rest Is History still has major terrain to cover. Sandbrook listed three significant topics the podcast has not yet tackled:
- The English Civil War
- The Crusades
- The Russian Revolution
These omissions suggest the show's ambitious scope and long trajectory ahead.