The Napoleonic Wars Podcast

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 wider context of the Peninsular War. Buy Graeme's books: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Dr-Graeme-Callister/a/4546 https://www.helion.co.uk/people/graeme-callister.php Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspod

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: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Dr-Graeme-Callister/a/4546 https://www.helion.co.uk/people/graeme-callister.php Support the show at: https://www.patreon.com/thenapoleonicwarspod Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Battle of Basarco 01:47 Strategic context of the Peninsular War in 1810 03:50 French and Allied army conditions and morale 06:49 Terrain features and geographic challenges 11:12 French plans and reconnaissance errors 15:06 Wellington's defensive strategy and troop deployment 20:11 French misconceptions and attack plans 25:00 Terrain's impact on the battle's outcome 29:56 French troop conditions and leadership issues 34:59 The importance of terrain in 1810 warfare 39:54 French tactical errors and missed opportunities 45:07 The aftermath and significance of Basarco

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.php Support the show at: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspod

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 dissect the reputation of soldiers during this period, separating myth and reality. Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/cw/thenapoleonicwarspod

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 larger production about set at the Battle of Waterloo. I sat down with him to talk about his vision behind 'The Coward' (the short film he's creating), why he is putting historical accuracy front and centre of his film making, and how, in his words, he's bringing a 'Saving Private Ryan' approach to the Napoleonic Wars. This is a fantastic project which we're very keen to support. If you would like to chip in to the fundraiser, check out the link below - you will not be charged unless the project reaches its funding goal. Support 'The Coward': https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/exorbito/the-coward-short-war-film-2026 Find out more about the project: https://thecoward1812.com

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 appeal to all sides of the political divides. How did he reverse his fortunes as an escaped political prisoner to become President of France, and why as President did he decide to carry out yet another coup? Edward Shawcross returns to take us through this rollercoaster of French politics and intrigue. Get Edward's books: https://www.faber.co.uk/product/9780571361304-the-peoples-emperor/?srsltid=AfmBOoomYEkfA0l83B2WxSnkmV7WFm30bUTqFFdkdxD7UlFQs7ltCPIf https://www.faber.co.uk/product/9780571360581-the-last-emperor-of-mexico/ Support the show at https://www.patreon.com/thenapoleonicwarspod Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Louis Napoleon and his coups 02:12 Exile in London and social life in the demi-monde 03:49 Louis Napoleon's political ambitions and 1848 revolution 07:08 The rise of the Second Republic and the new electoral landscape 11:52 Louis Napoleon's electoral strategy and populist appeal 15:49 The 1848 presidential election and his surprising victory 21:05 The use of plebiscites and propaganda to legitimize power 25:02 The 1851 coup d'etat and the path to empire 29:57 Challenges faced by Louis Napoleon as president 35:00 The expedition to Rome and foreign policy missteps 40:05 Consolidation of power and the 1852 referendum 44:49 The legacy of Louis Napoleon and lessons on populism keywords Louis Napoleon, Napoleon III, French history, populism, coup d'etat, 19th-century France, political strategy, democracy, revolution, empire

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 White, the Napoleonic Wars Podcast was privileged to be given exclusive access to the event to record the talks, which we now present for your viewing pleasure. So be prepared to shout 'Vive L'Empereur', 'God Save the King', and declare that 'Now is your time' as we recount the Battle of Waterloo, revisit the Waterloo Banquet, remind ourselves of Wellington's crime and punishment nightmares, and consider the experiences of black soldiers in the Napoleonic era in a two hour extravaganza. Visit Apsley House: https://www.wellingtoncollection.co.uk Support our work at patreon.com/thenapoleonicwarspod

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 Bob' Craufurd and notable figures such as John Fox Burgoyne. Mark's Books: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Dr-Mark-S-Thompson/a/2446 https://www.helion.co.uk/people/mark-s-thompson.php Keywords Royal Engineers, Napoleonic Wars, military engineering, John Fox Burgoyne, Wellington, siegecraft, military history, engineering legacy Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Royal Engineers 02:29 The Origins of the Royal Engineers 05:05 Engineering Duties in the Napoleonic Era 10:04 Reputation and Perception of the Royal Engineers 14:01 Promotion and Structure within the Royal Engineers 19:51 Characteristics of Royal Engineers 22:51 Behaviour and Discipline of Royal Engineers 31:29 John Fox Burgoyne and His Legacy 31:39 The Legacy of John Fox Burgoyne 35:30 Burgoyne's Role in the Royal Engineers 38:17 The Napoleonic Wars: Engineers in Action 46:08 Challenges Faced by Military Engineers 52:03 The Controversy of the Waterloo Map 01:01:27 Memoirs and Historical Accounts of Engineers 01:05:09 The Evolving Reputation of the Royal Engineers

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.php Support the show at: www.patreon.com/thenapoleonicwarspod Keywords: British Army, Napoleonic Wars, foreign soldiers, Swiss Regiment, German Legion, military recruitment, desertion, prisoners of war, foreign regiments, military history Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Foreign Troops in the British Army 02:49 Perceptions and Stigmas Surrounding Foreign Soldiers 05:59 Stereotypes and Positive Accounts of Foreign Soldiers 09:08 Diverse Sources of Foreign Soldiers 12:00 The Multinational Nature of the British Army 15:03 Reasons for Recruitment of Foreign Soldiers 17:47 The Longevity and Future of Foreign Regiments 29:10 The Evolution of Foreign Regiments in the British Army 31:24 The Risks of Joining the British Army 34:53 Desertion and Recruitment of Foreign Soldiers 40:35 French Emigres and Their Role in the British Army 43:34 The Stories of French Soldiers in British Service 54:35 Life After Service for Foreign Soldiers

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=AfmBOoomYEkfA0l83B2WxSnkmV7WFm30bUTqFFdkdxD7UlFQs7ltCPIf https://www.faber.co.uk/product/9780571360581-the-last-emperor-of-mexico/ Support us at: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/thenapoleonicwarspod⁠ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Napoleon III and his historical context 01:54 The family background and early life of Napoleon III 07:06 Myth vs. reality: Napoleon III's perception and legacy 14:52 The political landscape of 19th century France and Bonapartism 25:01 Napoleon III's early attempts at power and exile 39:56 The farcical coups and escape attempts of Napoleon III 54:59 The political ideas and ambitions of Napoleon III in prison 01:04:49 Conclusion: The legacy and myth of Napoleon III

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 insights from historian Evan Wilson. Evan's books: https://boydellandbrewer.com/book/a-social-history-of-british-naval-officers-1775-1815-9781783271740/?v=7885444af42e https://www.abebooks.co.uk/9781625347336/Horrible-Peace-British-Veterans-End-1625347332/plp Keyword Napoleonic Wars, John Jervis, Earl of St. Vincent, naval history, Evan Wilson, biography, British Navy, maritime strategy Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to the Napoleonic Navy and John Jarvis 03:11 The Early Life of John Jarvis 05:56 The Myths and Realities of Jarvis's Early Career 08:47 The Role of Patronage in Jarvis's Naval Career 12:03 Jarvis's Path to Becoming a Lieutenant 15:14 The Influence of Key Figures in Jarvis's Career 18:11 Jarvis's Experiences in the West Indies 20:55 The Transition to Lieutenant and Early Naval Actions 23:58 The Quebec Expedition and Emerging Myths 26:46 Personality Traits and Early Reputation of Jarvis 35:17 The Complexity of Historical Figures 37:12 The Quebec Campaign: A Naval Perspective 43:37 Myths and Realities of Jarvis's Role 45:12 Jarvis's Command Style and Leadership 53:10 The American War of Independence: Jarvis's Contributions 01:05:05 Jarvis's Rise to Prominence

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 with Jackson Podcast at: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/history-with-jackson/id1558691645 Timestamps: 00:00 The Nature of Government in the Napoleonic Era 03:01 Understanding Authoritarianism and Its Evolution 06:08 The Republican Autocracy Debate 09:12 Gender Dynamics in Authoritarian Leadership 12:13 Democracy: A Dangerous Experiment? 14:56 The American Democratic Experiment: Plutocracy or Democracy? 17:51 Framing Tyranny: Jefferson's Narrative 24:14 Scapegoating the Monarchy: King George as the Villain 29:28 The Burden of Kingship: George III's Struggles 30:31 Napoleon: The Authoritarian Innovator 34:50 Countering Authoritarianism: Humor and Propaganda 37:02 Censorship vs. Freedom of Expression 39:40 The Evolution of Censorship and Control 44:59 Repression and Its Varied Experiences 54:01 Political Visions: Continuity and Change Keywords: authoritarianism, Napoleon, George III, American Revolution, democracy, tyranny, political power, history, 18th century, 19th century

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 the future of Portugal, to the devastating French invasion of Andalusia, this episode lays the foundation for the rest of the Peninsular War. Chapters 00:00 The State of the Peninsula War 06:12 Wellington's Strategy and Morale 12:09 The French Invasion and Political Shifts 27:07 The Rise of the Cortes and Spanish Politics 33:27 Formation of a Government Under Siege 40:00 The Political Landscape of Occupied Spain 43:56 Colonial Responses to the Napoleonic Wars 51:14 Napoleon's Distractions and Strategic Decisions 57:11 The Siege of Theodor Rodrigo: A Case Study keywords Peninsular War, Wellington, Napoleon, Spanish Resistance, Sieges, 1810, Spain, Portugal, Military Strategy, Spanish Politics The Generals by Ian Dale - https://www.politicos.co.uk/products/the-generals-by-iain-dale-coming-september-2024 Josh Provan's books: https://www.helion.co.uk/people/joshua-provan.php Zack's books: https://www.helion.co.uk/people/zack-white.php

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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 in Leeds to interview Peter Smithurst, and gain exclusive access to handle the real, antique weapons that we have all heard so much about. Was this weapon key to defeating Napoleon? Why didn't Napoleon Bonaparte adopt them? What did the soldiers themselves make of this new gun? We explore all these questions and many more. With huge thanks to the Royal Armouries, Leeds, UK. Peter's books: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Peter-G-Smithurst/a/5933 Royal Armouries: https://royalarmouries.org/leeds

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 Madrid might have been over, but the Spanish were far from inclined to give up on independence. We explore the Battles of and Ocana, alongside political developments in the UK and Spain to understand why, by Christmas 1809, you might have been forgiven for thinking that the Peninsular War was all but over. Josh's books: https://www.helion.co.uk/people/joshua-provan.php Support the show at: www.patreon.com/thenapoleonicwarspod

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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 on Napoleon's bid for power. Graeme's Books: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Dr-Graeme-Callister/a/4546 Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 01:43 The Plan for the Coup of 1799 04:16 Isolation and Support Strategies 09:19 When the Directory Realizes the Threat 12:33 Napoleon's Near-Miss and Panic Moment 17:27 The Chamber Clearance and Final Overthrow 22:50 The Role of Lucien Bonaparte and Military Force 27:54 The Aftermath and Consolidation of Power 36:44 The New Constitution and Legitimacy 42:45 Napoleon's Decision-Making and Political Skill 50:01 International Reactions and European Perspective 55:54 Closing Remarks and Episode Sign-off keywords Napoleon, Coup of 1799, French Revolution, European History, Military Strategy, Political Manipulation

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/58479 Battle: Understanding Conflict from Hastings to Hellmand: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Battle-Hardback/p/21663 Support the show at: https://www.patreon.com/thenapoleonicwarspod Keywords Napoleon, Battle of Marengo, Italian Campaign, Military Strategy, 1800s Warfare, Austrians, French Army, Historical Battles, Military Tactics, Napoleon's Rise Chapters 00:00 Setting the Scene for Marengo 09:39 Napoleon's Leadership and Strategy 15:29 Morale and Conditions of the Armies 18:02 Battlefield Geography and Tactical Considerations 23:07 Plans and Expectations of Both Sides 27:51 Tactical Doctrine and Decision Making 30:45 The Battle Begins: Austrian Offensive 36:49 French Forces in Distress 47:14 The Turning Point: Arrival of Reinforcements 55:41 From Defeat to Victory: The Counterattack 01:00:56 The Aftermath: A Propaganda Victory

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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 the Napoleonic Wars. Drawing on Hare’s rediscovered journal, personal belongings, and the famous uniform that accompanied him on his journey, we follow the young naval officer from his early career at sea through his capture by the French and into the dangerous world of Napoleonic prisoner-of-war camps. How did British prisoners live in captivity? What risks did they face if they attempted to escape? And how did Hare manage to travel across enemy territory, evade capture, and make his way back to Britain? Along the way, we explore the wider experience of naval prisoners during the wars against Napoleon, the detective work that brought Hare’s story back into the spotlight, and the extraordinary legacy of a man whose determination turned a desperate gamble into one of the great escape stories of the age. Join us for an unforgettable journey of endurance, ingenuity, and adventure in the age of Napoleon. For more on Dr Gazzard's research please visit Spotlight Series: Charles Hare's Great Escape – Royal Museums Greenwich Shop and also her work Buy The Art of Naval Portraiture by Katherine Gazzard – Royal Museums Greenwich Shop

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 masquerades in London: their origins and the political context 02:46 - Costume choices: character dressing, historic dress, and the domino 05:47 - The Georgian Masquerade: key features and differences from other entertainments 09:03 - Debauchery myths and the reality: episodes of flirtation and limited physical intimacy 13:01 - The real versus perceived debauchery: archival evidence and myth debunking 13:46 - Historical perceptions and fears of masquerades as sex parties and moral threats 15:23 - The political reactions: bans and the impact of earthquakes and natural calamities 16:51 - Masquerades as spaces of expression for the elite’s hidden desires 18:42 - Primary source material: diaries, newspapers, bills—and interpretative challenges 19:46 - Changing public perceptions: from scandal to entertainment 20:39 - Evolution of masquerades over the Georgian period: commercialization and accessibility 22:37 - The suppression and revival of masquerades: links to political crises and royal events 24:32 - The extravagant and costly nature of masquerades: from private commissions to public spectacles 28:41 - The role of newspapers, diaries, and visual artefacts in reconstructing masquerade history 39:26 - The suppression of masquerades outside elite spaces and legal repercussions 50:29 - The importance of storytelling and the role of visual culture in history 56:40 - How modern popular culture like Bridgerton celebrates and distorts those historical images 66:38 - The potential for masquerades to serve as spaces of resistance, identity, and societal critique

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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. Buy Graeme's books at: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Dr-Graeme-Callister/a/4546 Support the show at: https://www.patreon.com/thenapoleonicwarspod Chapters 00:00 The Rise of Napoleon: A Coup in 1799 03:01 Napoleon's Return from Egypt: A Savior or a Coward? 06:10 The State of the Directory: A Failing Government 08:58 The Impact of Personal Relationships on Political Decisions 11:57 The Paranoia of French Politics: A Legacy of the Terror 15:01 Key Figures in the Coup: Allies and Influencers 17:49 The Role of the Military in Political Change 21:14 The Future of France: Napoleon's Vision and Ambitions 28:03 Key Figures in the Coup 32:09 Political Dynamics and Military Influence 35:10 Historical Parallels: The English Civil War 39:00 Napoleon's Rise: From Second Choice to Leader 50:14 The Coup Plan: Constitutional Manipulation 54:32 Conclusion and Future Discussions Keywords Napoleon Bonaparte, French Revolution, Brumaire Coup, French politics, military strategy, 1799, revolutionary France, political upheaval