The Napoleonic Wars Podcast
Zack White 380 episodes Nov 8, 2026
Who was Napoleon Bonaparte? What was his legacy on history? And why, more than 200 years later, does the conflict which he gave his name to still matter? Join award-winning Napoleonic historians Dr Zack White, Dr Luke Reynolds, and Liam Telfer as they host Europe's leading show devoted to the American War of Independence, French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. From interviews with leading researchers, to deep dive debates on some of the big questions, this show is ideal for those who want to start building their knowledge or deepen their understanding of the period.
Episodes
Battle of New Orleans: Mythbusted
How did a rag-tag American army manage to gut a veteran British force at the Battle of New Orleans? Dr Joseph Stoltz returns to complete our analysis of the Battle of New Orleans, exploring the myths that have sprung up, the way in which the history of the battle has been manipulated, and why both the US and UK are keen to not make too much of this David vs Goliath event.Buy Joseph's book: htt
Napoleon & His Marshals
In 1804 Napoleon Bonaparte created a top team of France's greatest military minds to push his empire to ever greater feats of conflict. However the marshals were anything but a unified top team. From astronomical egos to catastrophic rivalries, betrayal and conceit, as well a villainy and bravery we common traits across Napoleon's marshals.Andrew Roberts's new book looks at the story o
The Eve of New Orleans: War of 1812
The Battle of New Orleans is a battle that the British love to forget. It is also the battle that forged a future president in the form of Andrew Jackson. Dr Joseph Stoltz joins us to talk about the battle, its commanders, why Pakenham decided the attack where he did, the myths that have sprung up around the battle, and whether this expedition was doomed from the start.Buy Joseph's book: https://w
Admiral Villeneuve - Trafalgar's Villain
On the 21st October 1805, British Admiral Horatio Nelson famously defeated a combined French and Spanish navy under the command of Admiral Villeneuve. The French admiral's reputation has withered under the long shadow of his defeat at Trafalgar, but what was the bigger picture of his life, service, success and failure in the French navy during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Paul
Napoleon's Conscripts
Dr Graeme Callister joins us to discuss how Napoleon conscripted the soldiers who would be so integral to his success on the battlefields of Europe, exploring how people were conscripted, how they evaded conscription, the political dangers of conscription, and the impact on both France and the men themselves.Buy Graeme's books: https://www.helion.co.uk/military-history-books/napoleons-conscrip
The Battle of Bussaco: The Peninsular War Saga
On the 27th September 1810, British and Portuguese forces under the command of the Duke of Wellington defeated a French army under Marshal Massena. Dr Graeme Callister joins us for this latest instalment of our Peninsular War saga to talk through how Wellington's men fended off French attacks, discuss whether this was a battle that Wellington couldn't lose, and what this meant for the wide
The Eve of Bussaco 1810 - Peninsular War
The Peninsular War series meets our battle series as we deep dive the Battle of Bussaco in the first of a two-parter on Wellington and Massena's duel in the Portuguese mountains. Graeme Callister joins us to talk about the French plan of operations, why their reconnaissance was so poor, and why Massena was so desperate to attack Wellington on his mountaintop position.Get Graeme's books: ht
The Peninsular War: Coa & Almeida
Josh Provan returns for another instalment of our blow by blow retelling of the Peninsular War, which this episode being the first in a triple bill of Peninsular-focused episodes. We cover the Combat at the Coa, the combobulation of Black Bob Craufurd, and 'the big bang' that ended the siege of Almeida.Buy Josh's books: https://www.helion.co.uk/people/joshua-provan.phpSupport the show
Wellington and 'the Scum of the Earth'
Wellington famously dismissed his rank and file as a band of criminals, rogues and reprobates who were hammered into a fine fighting force by the British military establishment. His infamous 'scum of the earth' comment has cast a long shadow over the reputation of the British soldiers who fought during the Napoleonic Wars. In this wide-ranging discussion, Liam Telfer and Dr Luke Reynolds d
Redcoats in Combat - ON FILM!
We all love to hate the Napoleon Movie - high hopes left dashed by a lacklustre storytelling, sloppy editing and a disdain for the historical. Now meet the man who wants to right that wrong! Connor O'Brien is a producer who wants to create a short film about a soldier in the Battle of Lundy's Lane, fought in Canada in 1814. His vision is for this project to be a stepping stone to a much la
The Last Napoleonic Coup: Napoleon III's power grab
Napoleon III was in equal parts implausible, hapless and ambitious. But in 1848 he finally succeeded in achieving his long-held ambition of taking power in France. In the second instalment of our exploration of Napoleon III's life, we explore how he bounced back from his second failed coup, seized the initiative in the course of the 1848 revolution, and honed his populist style of politics to
Waterloo Weekend at Apsley House
This year, Matthew Taylor worked in partnership with Apsley House to create a 'Waterloo Weekend' commemoration, featuring talks by top historians hosted in the Waterloo banquet room in the Duke of Wellington's London Residence, Apsley House - also known as 'Number One, London.Featuring Graeme Callister, Michael Rayner, Luke Reynolds, Matthew Taylor, and some reprobate called Zack W
The Royal Engineers
Who were the Royal Engineers? How were they formed? What did they do? And why do they matter in the context of the Napoleonic Wars? The world's leading expert on the Royal Engineers during the Napoleonic Wars, Dr Mark Thompson, returns to the show to discuss this unit, their impact, and their controversies during the Napoleonic era. We discuss everything from crime to animosity with 'Black
The King's Foreigners: The Men who fought for Britain
What if the British army wasn't actually that British? Alistair Nichols joins us to look at the Foreign troops who took the 'King's Shilling' and served under the British flag. We look at their motivations, their contributions and whether they have been saddled with an unjustified reputation for desertion.Buy Alistair's books: https://www.helion.co.uk/people/alistair-nichols.ph
The 'Other' Napoleon: Napoleon III's early life and haphazard career
France's experiment with Bonapartism did not end in 1815. Edward Shawcross joins us to explore the baffling and improbably life of Napoleon III - the nephew of the Emperor who seemed to have all of the ambition, and none of the talent, of the original Napoleon.Get Edward's books: https://www.faber.co.uk/product/9780571361304-the-peoples-emperor/?srsltid=AfmBOoomYEkfA0l83B2WxSnkmV7WFm30bUTq
The Father of Nelson's Navy: John Jervis, Earl St Vincent's Early Life
In a world where Nelson dominates discussion of the Royal Navy during the Napoleonic era, arguably more significant figues have been pushed to the sidelines. In this episode, we explore the fascinating career of John Jervis, Earl of St. Vincent, and his role in the Napoleonic Wars. Join us as we delve into his early life, naval career, personality, and the myths surrounding his legacy, with insigh
Napoleon, Tyranny & Revolutionary Government
Exploring the nature of authoritarianism from the late 18th century to the 19th century, focusing on figures like Napoleon, George III, and the American founders, Jackson van Uden joins us to talk about tyranny in the Napoleonic age. The discussion delves into definitions, historical examples, gender and race influences, and the evolution of political power and repression.Listen to the History wit
Forgotten Sieges - Peninsular War Saga - Early 1810
This episode explores the early 1810 phase of the Peninsular War, focusing on the strategic movements of Wellington, Napoleon, and the Spanish resistance. It highlights the sieges, political upheavals, and military decisions shaping Spain and Portugal's fight for independence. From the formation of the Cortes, to the fractious situation in Spain's colonies, from Napoleon's vision for t
The Baker Rifle - A Royal Armouries Exclusive
The Baker Rifle is perhaps the most famous firearm of the Napoleonic era, propelled to a legendary status by the exploits of a certain Richard Sharpe in the novels by Bernard Cornwell.But how practical a weapon system was it? Was it really that revolutionary? And how did the British come to adopt this firearm in the midst of the Napoleonic Wars?We were privileged to be invited to the Royal Armours
The Peninsular War - Spain Falls - Autumn 1809
Josh Provan returns for the newest instalment of our blow by blow exploration of the Peninsular War, as we look at the Autumn of 1809. The Talavera campaign might have been over, but the suffering of the British Army was far from at an end. We open by looking at what one history described as 'the misery of the Guardiana', before turning once again to the Spanish perspective. One thrust on
Napoleon seizes power - The Brumaire Coup, 1799
Explore the intricate details of Napoleon's 1799 coup d'état, its strategic planning, execution, and the international reactions that shaped European history. Dr. Graeme Callister provides expert insights into this pivotal moment, in which Napoleon reached for power, and very nearly let it slip from his grasp. This is the story of the Brumaire Coup, the second instalment of our two parter
Battle of Marengo
Explore the detailed strategic and tactical nuances of the Battle of Marengo, Napoleon's pivotal engagement in Italy, with Dr. Graeme Callister. Understand the battlefield geography, command decisions, and propaganda impact that shaped this crucial victory.Waterloo: The Attack of I Corps: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Waterloo-The-Attack-of-I-Corps-Paperback/p/58479Battle: Understanding Conf
The Napoleonic Great Escape
Captured by the French, stripped of his freedom, and confined hundreds of miles from home, Royal Navy officer Charles Hare faced a challenge that thousands of British prisoners dreamed of overcoming but few ever achieved, escape.In this episode, we sit down with Dr Katherine Gazzard of Royal Museums Greenwich to uncover the remarkable story behind one of the most extraordinary survival tales of th
Masquerades - The Ultimate Georgian Party?
Discover the fascinating world of 18th-century masquerades with cultural historian Dr. Megan Kobza. We explore the social, political, and artistic layers behind these extravagant events, revealing how masks and costumes served as tools of transgression, status, and social experimentation.Megan's book: https://yalebooks.co.uk/book/9780300276213/the-masquerade/Timestamps: 01:45 - The first masqu
Plotting Napoleon's Coup - Brewing Brumaire
In 1799 Napoleon Bonaparte abandoned an army, and abandoned a government, launching a coup which would cement his place as a pivotal figure in history. Dr Graeme Callister returns to talk us through the political chaos, key figures, and strategic planning behind the event. We also discuss the revolutionary context, the role of military and political players, and the implications for French history
Looking like a Redcoat: Meet the Tailor
Ever wanted to know what it takes to look like a redcoat? Join us as we explore the intricate world of historical military tailoring with expert James Graves. Discover the craftsmanship, research process, and challenges behind recreating authentic Napoleonic era uniforms, and get tips for reenactors and history enthusiasts alike. One of our 'Meet the...' range with leading historical exper
The Napoleonic Age of Alchemy
The Napoleonic era was a transformative age in the development of Alchemy and Chemistry. Explore the fascinating history of alchemy from ancient Egypt to the Napoleonic era, uncovering how early science evolved and influenced modern chemistry. Join Dr. Kit Chapman as he debunks myths, highlights key discoveries, and reveals the surprising connections between alchemy, science, and history. We blow
Catholic Emancipation
Catriona Kennedy joins us to explore the history of Catholic emancipation in Britain, the slow shift towards toleration, scapegoating and the final Emancipation Act's social and political implications, along with the key figures involved, including the pivotal role of the Duke of Wellington, Robert Peel and Daniel O'Connell.Support the show at: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspo
The Battle of Maida
In this Battle Series episode of the The Napoleonic Wars Podcast, we head to southern Italy to unpack the dramatic and sometimes misunderstood Battle of Maida with historian Richard Hopton author of 'The Battle of Maida, 1806: Fifteen Minutes of Glory'.We set the stage with the wider Mediterranean campaign before diving into the opposing commanders, John Stuart and Jean Reynier, and the bold decis
Cavalrymen of the Napoleonic Era
In this second instalment we return to the saddle with historian Josh Proven to uncover the hidden mechanics behind cavalry warfare during the Napoleonic Wars.This episode goes beyond the charge to explore how cavalry actually functioned under the chaos of battle. How did commanders maintain control over fast moving formations at Waterloo or Eylau? Were signals, discipline, and doctrine enough or
95th Rifles - Mythbusted
Historian and Rifles veteran Tim Saunders joins us to delve into the history, ethos, and legacy of the 95th Rifles, a distinguished unit of the British Army during the Napoleonic Wars. We discuss their formation, training, and the impact of their unique weaponry, including the Baker rifle. The discussion also explores the challenges faced by the unit, their portrayal in popular culture through Ber
Sharpe's Confession w/ Sean Bean & Bernard Cornwell
In a world first, Sean Bean and Bernard Cornwell sit down to share their memories about how they shaped Sharpe, and how Sharpe shaped them.Will Sean reveal where the inimitable use of 'bastard' came from? Does Bernard settle the argument on which Sharpe novel is the best? Where did the idea of Sharpe come from.From fan questions, to an exclusive reading from the new Sharpe novel featuring
Making Napoleon's Marshals
What does it take to make a Marshal of France. Of the 26 individuals that Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte elevated to the highest military rank of the first French Empire, there were a myriad of similarities and differences - ostentatious, arrogant, specialists, administrators, inspirational figures, princes and paupers.To delve into the characters of these exalted figures of military and Napoleonic hi
Cavalry in the Napoleonic Age Part 1
In this episode of the The Napoleonic Wars Podcast, we saddle up and ride into part 1 of the dramatic world of cavalry warfare during the Napoleonic Wars with historian and author Josh Proven.From the thunderous heavy cavalry charges to the lightning fast scouting of light horsemen, we explore how mounted troops shaped battlefields across Europe and beyond. Josh breaks down the different cavalry t
Emergency Broadcast: Saving Napoleonic History
In an emergency recording Gareth Glover sits down with Zack to discuss a major auction of Napoleonic letters, the importance of preserving historical documents, and how the community can help save these invaluable pieces of history from private collections. The episode emphasises the significance of public access and proper preservation of military heritage, and the way that listeners can chip in
Marshal Massena
Who was the 'Darling Child of Victory'? What characterised his style as a commander? What were his greatest moments? And why was he such an inveterate looter?Marshal Massena is the focus of the latest episode as the Marshals series makes a welcome return to the Napoleonic Wars Podcast. Rachael Stark holds court as we discuss how he compared to other marshals and to Napoleon himself, the re
Most powerful woman of the Napoleonic era
To mark International Women's Day we ask 'Who was the most powerful woman of the Napoleonic era?' 'Did women weild 'soft power', 'hard power' or just plain old power?' and 'have women been quietly weilding the power for years, while the men fail to notice?'This episode of the Napoleonic Wars Pod delves into the complex dynamics of power during the Napole
Redcoat Light Infantry
In this episode of the Napoleonic Wars Podcast, we sit down with author, reenactor, and historian Rob Yuill to pull the Redcoated light infantry out from the long shadow of the Rifles.Why did the army convert ordinary battalions into specialist skirmishers? What problem were commanders trying to solve on the battlefields of the Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars?We explore the reforming vision of J
Napoleon's Unified Europe?
This conversation delves into the themes of Napoleonic governance and the integration of Europe, exploring the complexities of Napoleon's legacy, the cultural superiority perceived by the French, and the responses of various nations to French rule. The discussion highlights the interplay between idealism and pragmatism in governance, the lasting impacts of the Napoleonic Code, and the nuanced
Fighting like Napoleon's Men: French drill 1789-1815
Marc Middleton joins us for a conversation that delves into the evolution of military drill within the French army during the Napoleonic Wars, exploring its significance in transforming ordinary citizens into disciplined soldiers. The discussion highlights the challenges of teaching drill, the historical context of French drill manuals, and the adaptation of tactics over time. It also emphasizes t
Battle of Cape St Vincent
In the mists off the coast of Portugal February 1797, daring disobedience, lacklustre leadership and discipline under fire came together to produce a timely and reputation-defining victory for the British at the Battle of Cape St Vincent.Naval historian Kate Jamieson takes us for a blow by blow journey through the gunsmoke and splinters to help us separate the myth from the historical reality, and
The Battle of La Boissiere Ecole: The 1815 Allied Invasion of France through two sets of eyes and two sets of cameras
How much do soldiers really remember of battle? What influences that memory process? And what was it like to be in the midst of the maelstrom of combat?Napoleonic re-enactor Liam Telfer, and Napoleonic historian Zack White sit down with the expert on the history of memory Luke Reynolds for an interview on how a living history immersive event can change the way that we understand conflict. Drawing
Sharpe's Greatest Hits
In the run up to our hotly anticipated interview with Sean Bean and Bernard Cornwell (titled Sharpe's Confession), Zack, Liam and Louie sit down to discuss some of the greatest moments from the Sharpe franchise. From best books to most diabolical villains we dissect the series to discuss the high points of the novels and TV series which we have so often described as 'the gateway drug into
Surviving as a Napoleonic Soldier
What did it take to survive the Napoleonic Wars? How did soldiers withstand the privations of campaign? And how did they balance the need to carry their worldly possessions on their shoulder, with the need to remain comfortable, and follow army regulations?Away from the famous battles and privileged lives of commanders, daily survival depended on clothing, equipment, and constant improvisation.In
Napoleon's Imperial Guard: Myth & Reality
The French Imperial Guard has a reputation as the elite, all conquering crack troops of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. But how justified is that reputation? Dr Graeme Callister joins us to talk about the formation of the Guard, its reputation, organisation, combat record and discipline, to unpick the myth from the reality.Get exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspod
The British Army in Combat
Professor Kevin Linch joins us for a deep dive into how the British Army waged war. We discuss the army's organisation, the role of regimental guns, infantry tactics, the challenges faced by cavalry, and the importance of artillery innovations. The conversation also explores the complexities of combined arms operations, the integration with allies, and the significant influence of the Royal Na
Napoleon's Greatest Marshal: Berthier vs Davout - The Grand Final
The climax of our epic 'Battle of the Marshals' showdown arrives tonight, as the man who has come to define perceptions of a Chief of Staff, Louis-Alexandre Berthier, and the Iron Marshal Nicolas Davout go head to head in our grand final.After hours of discussion, pitches from our most loyal fans, votes, lobbying, balloon debates and back stabbing, we have whittled France's most exalte
Britain's Forgotten Recruits: The Fencibles
We delve into the historical context of the British defence during the early 19th century, focusing on the Fencibles, a unique military formation. The discussion highlights the origins, roles, and significance of the Fensibles in Scotland, their impact on British identity, and the complexities of soldiering during this period. Rory Butcher, PhD candidate at the University of Leeds, provides insigh
The East India Company: Origins
In our first episode of this new series, Dr John McAleer and host Dr Zack White delve into the history and significance of the East India Company, exploring its origins, its role in the British Empire, and its impact on India and the world. We discuss the complexities of trade, competition, and the transition from a mercantile enterprise to a military power, culminating in the pivotal events leadi
Mutiny
What was a mutiny? Why did they matter? And once you started mutinying against your officers, how did you try to ensure that you weren't executed for your troubles?Dr Callum Easton sits down with our very own Zack White to discuss mutinies in the Royal Navy and the East India Company Army as they compare and contrast the language, aims and management of these seditious acts.Buy Callum's bo
Hougoumont: The fire at Waterloo
On the 18th June 1815, three fires broke out in central Belgium, that would go down in the annals of military history.The first, and perhaps least well known, would actually prove to be pivotal in the scale of Napoleon’s defeat at Waterloo, delaying the arrival of Bulow’s IV Prussian corps to the point that it would take them 12 hours to march from Wavre to Plancenoit on Napoleon’s right flank, ar
The Battle of Talavera: The Peninsular War Saga
In this episode, we dive into the fierce two-day struggle that became one of the defining moments of the Peninsular War: the Battle of Talavera. From the blazing July heat to the confusion of night assaults, we examine how Sir Arthur Wellesley—soon to become the Duke of Wellington—held his fragile Anglo-Spanish line against repeated French attacks.We explore the drama behind the battlefield: the s
The Talavera Campaign 1809: The Peninsular War Saga
In this episode, historian Josh Provan joins us to trace the tense, twisting campaign that led to the Battle of Talavera—a confrontation born not just of French ambition, but of uneasy alliances, political blunders, and the grinding realities of Peninsular warfare.We explore how Sir Arthur Wellesley set himself and his men on a collision course with both Joseph Bonaparte’s French army and his own
Wellington & Napoleon: Your Questions Answered
Following the lively debate that sprang up around our episode on 'Who was better: Wellington or Napoleon', we took the time to sit down and carefully consider some of the interesting questions and counter arguments made by our listeners. Who was Wellington's Berthier? Is criticising Wellington anti-British? Was Wellington's political career really that bad? Was Napoleon really bett
Waterloo: Staging the Battle in the Capital
By 1815, London had long considered itself the centre of Britain and the wider Empire, so how did it respond when “the greatest victory which History records” (The Chester Chronicle) occurred a mere 200 miles from it? By co-opting it, naturally. Moving away from previous work on the Waterloo Banquet and Vauxhall’s Waterloo fete, this talk explores some of the ways in which ordinary Londoners exper
Wellington vs Napoleon: The Great Debate
Who was the better battlefield general? Napoleon Bonaparte, Emperor of the French, or Arthur Wellesley, first Duke of Wellington, and darling (sort of) of the British army.Recently famed author of the Sharpe's series of novels Bernard Cornwell set the social media sphere ablaze by once again igniting this age old discussion. The response, predictably, divided social media, but what happens whe
Leipzig - The Battle of the Nations
Step onto the blood-soaked fields of October 1813 as we revisit the Battle of Leipzig, the titanic clash that earned the title “Battle of the Nations.” In this episode of the Napoleonic Wars Podcast, we sit down with acclaimed historian John H. Gill to unravel the epic story of the largest battle in Europe before the First World War.Gill guides us through the dramatic build-up after Napoleon’s dis
Beyond Marriage: Sex, Desire, and Deviancy in the Napoleonic era
CONTENT WARNING: There is very strong language, and discussion of topics of a sexual nature from the very start and throughout this podcast. Listener discretion is advised.Why is the idea of 'normal' sex a bit of a myth? What does it mean to be 'sexually deviant', and who gets to make that call? What happens if you are found to be 'sexually deviant'? And why did the powers
The Battle of Austerlitz: Napoleon's Masterpiece?
On 2nd December 1805 Napoleon achieved what was perhaps his greatest victory. Over the course of the short winter's day he shattered the coalition force arrayed against him on the Pratzen heights, in a victory that would help him to usher in a new order in Europe.But what actually happened on that bitterly cold day? Who was responsible for this crushing victory? And how the has the battle been
The Eve of Austerlitz
In this episode of The Napoleonic Wars Podcast, we’re joined by world renowned historian Dr. Alexander Mikaberidze, acclaimed author of The Napoleonic Wars: A Global History, for the first of a two part deep dive into one of Napoleon’s greatest triumphs: the Battle of Austerlitz.Part One, The Eve of Austerlitz, sets the stage for the clash that would reshape Europe. How did we get here? Dr. Mikabe
The Battle of Assaye
The Battle of Assaye has been called Arthur Wellesley’s first great victory, a clash that set the stage for his later fame as the Duke of Wellington. Outnumbered six to one by the mighty Maratha Confederacy, Wellesley’s 6,500 men faced a storm of cannon fire, disciplined infantry, and thousands of cavalry in a battle that could easily have ended in disaster. Instead, through bold gambles, ruthless
Siege Warfare - An Unavoidable Evil
Ready to blast through the walls of Napoleonic history? In this pounding episode of the Napoleonic Wars Podcast, we talk to Dr Zack White about his edited collection An Unavoidable Evil - Siege Warfare in the Age of Napoleon. Discover how the era of Napoleon wasn't all about Austerlitz and Waterloo; from the fortresses of Izmail and Braila to Wellington’s Peninsular sieges, we uncover the dramatic
Bread, Boots and Bullets - Logistics of the British Army
Have you ever wondered how Britain’s redcoats marched across Europe with full bellies, coin in their pockets, and plenty of ammunition? In this episode, award winning historian Professor Kevin Linch returns to our British Army series to help us break down the gritty reality of military logistics behind the lines.We explore what was in a soldier's daily ration and how it was cooked up on campai
Waterloo Medals
Why did Britain break its mould with the Waterloo medal? Were medals really that rare? And why do they matter?Expert auctioneer Robert Wilde-Evans joins Luke and Zack to discuss how you tell the real ones from the fakes, and what a Waterloo medal really represents. We discuss how they highlight a shift in attitudes to how the British soldier is viewed during the time, what the Holy Grail is when i
Wars of Revolution and Empire: The People's Perspective
What did ordinary Britons really think about the American and the French Revolutions as war erupted across the globe? In this lively episode of The Napoleonic Wars Podcast, we’re joined by Professor Emma Macleod of the University of Stirling to dig into the fascinating world of 18th Century Britain through the letters of two remarkable men: Rev. James Wodrow, a Scottish minister in Ayrshire, and S
The Battle of Oporto - the Peninsular War saga
Following the disaster of the Corunna campaign, we again turn our attention to Portugal for the next phase of our Peninsular War saga. We talk about Napoleon's unrealistic ambitions for the second French invasion of Portugal, Britain's uncertainty about committing more troops to the defence of Spain and Portugal, and the challenges that both French Marshal Soult, and British General Arthur
Napoleonic Monuments: The Committee of Taste
How do you celebrate a war hero? Both during and in the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars, Britain had to find an answer to this complex question. The answer took many forms, one of which was monuments to the fallen 'heroes'. Abercrombie, Moore, Nelson and many others became the focus of a multi-million pound national project to instal monuments to their memory in St Paul's Cathedral. A
Redcoats: Careers and Promotion in the British Army
Professor Kevin Linch joins us again for what is Act 2 covering all things rank and file careers, join us as we uncover the truth behind how a British soldiers career prgressed through pay, promotion and punishment.Professor Linch is a Professor of Modern History at the University of Leeds. He specialises in the history of Britain in the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, focusing on the h
Sex, lust and flirting in the Napoleonic Era
EXPLICIT CONTENT WARNING: Fan flirting, dangerous liaisons, 'self-gratification', false modesty and sexual health are all under the microscope as sex historian Eleanor Janega joins us to talk about sex in the Napoleonic era. We also discuss the status of women during the period, why there really isn't a 'Lady Chatterley's Lover' effect, and why philosopher Voltaire really i
Eylau: Napoleon’s Bloody Stalemate in the Snow
In this gripping episode, we’re joined by Dr. Graeme Callister of York St John University to explore one of Napoleon’s most harrowing and least decisive battles—Eylau. As winter tightened its grip on East Prussia in early 1807, Napoleon pursued the Russian army into a frozen hellscape, determined to finish what he started after crushing Prussia. But at the bleak town of Eylau, the French encounter
Who lost America? A War of Independence Special
Who was responsible for the British losing America?George Washington? 'Gentleman Johnny' Burgoyne? Lord Howe? Clinton? Or someone else entirely?We discuss Britain's failures during the American War of Independence, whether Washington counts as British in the context of this debate, why egos matter in war, and whether this was a war that could never have been won by the British.https://
Napoleon’s Armies of the Confederation of the Rhine
In this episode, expert John H. Gill unpacks the story of Napoleon’s Confederation of the Rhine armies. Created in 1806 as a new pact of German client states, the Confederation fielded some 90,000 soldiers by 1813. Gill asks if these men were patriotic allies or grumbling conscripts? He reveals how heavy recruitment and French domination stoked national resentment and even tiny principalities like
Napoleon's Greatest Marshal: The Second Semi-final
Who was Napoleon's Greatest Marshal? We move one step closer to settling this question as Ney, Davout, Marmont, Murat, Saint Cyr and Suchet battle it out for public acclaim.Brace yourself for a shock as we delve into these titans of the French Army's greatest moments, their military record, and their wider legacy.Michel Ney, the “Bravest of the Brave,” and his heroic last stand.Louis-Nicol
The Crisis of the Battle of Waterloo: Live
To mark the 210th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo, we held a livestream of the crisis moment of the battle. We talk about Napoleon Bonaparte's last desperate role of the dice, the French forces involved, the Battle of Quatre Bras and Ligny, and the efforts of Dutch, Belgian, Hanoverian, Brunswick, Prussian and, yes, British troops involved.In all we raised £600 for the Napoleonic & Revol
President Adams' America: Sedition, Aliens and Quasi War
1797 was a moment of escalating international tensions and deepening domestic divisions. For eight years prior, Adams had served at the heart of George Washington’s administration, but nothing could fully prepare him for what would await him in his own presidency: the XYZ Affair, the Quasi War with France and the political firestorm unleashed by the Alien and Sedition Acts. As the young republic s
Waterloo's Great Turning Point
In this episode, we dive into four lesser-known but decisive moments that shaped the outcome of the 1815 Waterloo Campaign — moments that didn’t make headlines like the final charge of the Imperial Guard, but without which Napoleon’s defeat may never have happened.We begin on 15 June, as Prince Bernhard of Saxe-Weimar takes the initiative to defend the crossroads at Quatre Bras, halting the French
17th June 1815: Storm and Strategy
In this pivotal episode, we explore the pivotal episode that is the often-overlooked day between the battles of Ligny and Waterloo—17 June 1815—a day of dramatic retreats, strategic decisions, and torrential rain.After their narrow escape from Napoleon’s forces at Quatre Bras, Wellington’s Anglo-Allied army began a calculated retreat north to a defensive ridge near the village of Waterloo. As stor
Waterloo Hour by Hour
What happened at Waterloo? The story of the battle is well known, so in this episode we are focusing on the when and the how. How did these events overlap? On the 210th anniversary of the Waterloo campaign, we are retelling the story with the vital timestamps front and centre - we look at how these events interlink, and allow you to follow along, so that you can reflect on these events, knows exac
The Battle of Wagram
Military historian John H. Gill leads us through the titanic Battle of Wagram in July of 1809. In the wake of Napoleon Bonaparte’s defeat at Aspern-Essling, Napoleon and Austria’s Archduke Charles race to rebuild and prepare. Gill vividly describes Napoleon’s massive fortification of Lobau Island and daring Danube crossing that thrust the Grande Armée onto Austrian soil.The episode delves into Cha
Scandal and Family: Queen Charlotte
In this episode we welcome Natalee Garrett to talk about the longest-serving Queen consort in British history: Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz. A powerful personality behind the scenes, Charlotte overcame the hurdles of cutthroat public opinion, inhospitable in-laws and the madness of her husband to become one of the most important people in the Georgian royal family, and one of the most influen
