659. Dawn of the Samurai: Bloodbath at the Bridge (Part 2)

659. Dawn of the Samurai: Bloodbath at the Bridge (Part 2)

From The Rest Is History by Goalhanger

April 8, 2026 · 1h 7m · Episode 659

About this episode

The episode discusses the rise of the Samurai and the Minamoto clan's control in 12th century Japan.

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 What made the Samurai such elite warriors? How did the Minamoto clan seize control of vast swathes of Japan in the 12th century? And, which of their Samurai rivals would enact their bloody downfall…? Join Tom and Dominic as they discuss the growing power of the Samurai in medieval Japan. _______ Advertise with us: Partnerships@goalhanger.com To read our new newsletter, sign up at: therestishistory.com/newsletters _______ Twitter: @TheRestHistory @holland_tom @dcsandbrook Video Editors: Jack Meek, Harry Swan + Adam Thornton Social Producer: Harry Balden Producers: Tabby Syrett & Aaliyah Akude Senior Producer: Callum Hill Executive Producer: Dom Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

People in this episode

Hosts: Tom Holland, Dominic Sandbrook

Topics covered

  • Samurai
  • Minamoto clan
  • medieval Japan
  • warriors
  • historical power dynamics

Keywords

  • Samurai
  • Minamoto clan
  • Japan
  • medieval
  • warriors
  • history
  • bloodbath

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The Rest Is History Club, Goalhanger, Twitter

Places: Japan

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