Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook, hosts of the popular history podcast "The Rest is History," made a guest appearance on Conan O’Brien’s well-known podcast this week. Their discussion highlighted the blend of humor and serious storytelling that characterizes their show. O’Brien, who has an interest in history, expressed his enjoyment of their podcast, particularly their humorous takes on historical figures, such as the peculiar beards of First World War generals.

Holland and Sandbrook emphasized that while humor is a part of their storytelling, the focus remains on the historical narratives. They shared amusing anecdotes, including former U.S. President Richard Nixon’s choice of black shoes at the beach and George Custer’s notable hairstyle. They noted that humor can enhance the gravity of historical events, such as Winston Churchill’s resolute stance in 1940 against negotiating with Adolf Hitler, which could have altered the course of history.

The conversation also touched on the nature of historical figures, who often exhibit traits that are both absurd and relatable. Holland and Sandbrook pointed out that historical characters, much like people today, can be egotistical and petty, often embroiled in trivial disputes. This blend of the serious and the silly is a hallmark of their approach to history.

However, the discussion also prompted reflections on Canadian history and the challenges of engaging audiences in Canada. The hosts noted that while Canada has its share of intriguing historical figures and events, there is a lack of widespread cultural knowledge about them. For instance, few Canadians might recognize the eccentricities of former Prime Minister Mackenzie King, who famously held seances to communicate with his deceased mother.

The article suggests that the Canadian education system often neglects comprehensive teaching of Canadian history, and public broadcasting tends to favor American narratives. This preference for American stories may stem from their higher production values and perceived significance. The article argues that this trend extends beyond history to other cultural areas, such as sports and music, where Canadian interests often align more closely with American counterparts.

In an effort to bridge this knowledge gap, a new book titled "The Prime Ministers: Canada’s Leaders and the Nation They Shaped" by J.D.M. Stewart aims to provide accessible insights into Canada’s prime ministers. The book offers engaging anecdotes and addresses contemporary issues, including Indigenous relations and environmental concerns. Despite its well-crafted narrative, the article suggests that such works may struggle to capture the interest of younger Canadians, who may view them as overly earnest.

Ultimately, the article posits that a confident nation should approach its history with fascination and humor, recognizing the value of its own stories and the real people behind them. To foster this appreciation, Canadians must first acknowledge that their history is worth exploring and celebrating.