The Napoleonic Wars Podcast

Zack White
  • 4.9 (125)
  • History
  • Updated Biweekly

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.

  1. 2d ago

    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

  2. Jul 19

    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

  3. Jul 12

    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

  4. Jul 5

    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

  5. Jun 28

    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

  6. Jun 21

    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

  7. Jun 14

    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

  8. Jun 7

    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

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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.

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