Generals and Napoleon
Generals and Napoleon is a history podcast presented by John Viscardo that explores the Napoleonic Wars, iconic commanders, battlefield strategy, and leadership lessons. The show delves into the military campaigns and tactics of the era, offering insights into the decisions and personalities that shaped history. It is available on various platforms including Instagram, X/Twitter, YouTube, Patreon, and TikTok.
Episodes
Walcheren Expedition of 1809: Britain's Costly Attempt to Defeat Napoleon (with Jacqueline Reiter) | Ep 176
In this episode, we examine the doomed Walcheren Campaign of 1809, one of the largest and most controversial British operations of the Napoleonic Wars. Launched as part of the War of the Fifth Coalition, the expedition aimed to seize the Scheldt Estuary, destroy the French fleet at Antwerp, and weaken Napoleon's grip on Europe. Instead, the campaign became a military disaster marked by delays, poo
Napoleon's Empire Strikes Back: The 1809 Regensburg Campaign vs. Austria (with Jack Gill) | Ep 175
In April 1809, Napoleon faced one of the greatest challenges of his military career when Austria launched a surprise offensive against the French Empire. With his forces scattered across Bavaria, Napoleon moved with incredible speed to regain the initiative, setting the stage for the dramatic Regensburg (Ratisbon) Campaign.In this episode, special guest Jack Gill will explore how Napoleon rapidly
Naples and Napoleon: A Kingdom Transformed (with special guest Jonathan North) | Ep 174
What was life like in the Kingdom of Naples during the Napoleonic Era? In this episode, special guest Jonathan North explores one of the most fascinating and overlooked states of the Napoleonic Wars.From the arrival of French armies in Italy to the reigns of Joseph Bonaparte and Joachim Murat, the Kingdom of Naples underwent dramatic political, military, and social transformation. Napoleon sought
Napoleon's Grand Strategy Explained (with special guest Michael Leggiere) | Ep 173
Napoleon is remembered as one of history's greatest battlefield commanders, but his true genius extended far beyond the battlefield. In this episode, special guest & author Michael Leggiere will explore Napoleon's grand strategy—the ambitious plan that sought to establish French dominance across Europe and challenge the global power of Great Britain.From the victories of Austerlitz, Je
Waterloo Battlefield Tour: Where Napoleon Lost His Empire (with special guest David Buttery) | Ep 172
Join me for a first-hand walkthrough of the legendary Waterloo Battlefield in Belgium, where Napoleon fought his final battle on June 18, 1815. In this immersive battlefield tour, we'll walk the very ground where French, British, Dutch-Belgian, and Prussian armies clashed in one of history's most decisive military engagements.Special guest David Buttery takes us across the key locations th
Marshal Ney: The Bravest of the Brave During Napoleon's Retreat from Moscow (with Wayne Hanley) | Ep 171
In this episode, special guest and author Wayne Hanley explores the legendary rearguard actions of Marshal Michel Ney during Napoleon’s disastrous retreat from Russia in 1812. Known as "the Bravest of the Brave," Ney earned immortal fame by commanding the French Army’s rearguard under some of the harshest conditions in military history. Facing relentless Russian attacks, freezing tempera
How Napoleon Shaped Modern War and Politics (with special guest Robert C. Greenway) | Ep 170
More than 200 years after his fall at Waterloo, Napoleon continues to shape the modern world. His influence extends far beyond the battlefields of Europe, leaving a legacy that can still be seen in today's military organizations, legal systems, governments, and leadership doctrines.In this episode, special guest Robert C. Greenway will explore how Napoleon revolutionized warfare through the co
Sailors of the Napoleonic Era (with special guest Andrew Lambert) | Ep 169
Life at sea in the Napoleonic Era was a world of danger, discipline, and endurance. During this time (1799–1815), thousands of sailors served aboard the warships of Great Britain, France, Spain, and other European powers, facing fierce naval battles, brutal weather, disease, and months away from home.In this video, special guest & author Andrew Lambert will explore the daily lives of Napoleoni
Marie Antoinette: tragic Queen of France (with special guest Charles Mackay) | Ep 168
Marie Antoinette is one of the most misunderstood queens in history. Was she really the extravagant monarch who said, "Let them eat cake," or has history unfairly turned her into a symbol of the French Revolution?Special guest Charles Mackay will explore the remarkable life of Marie Antoinette—from her childhood to her marriage to the future King Louis XVI, her years as Queen of France,
Battle of Ocana: Spain's greatest military disaster (with special guest Joshua Provan) | Ep 167
The Battle of Ocaña, fought on November 19, 1809, was one of the most decisive and devastating battles of the Peninsular War. In this episode, special guest & author Josh Provan will examine how King Joseph Bonaparte and Marshal Soult led French forces to a crushing victory over General Juan Carlos de Aréizaga's Spanish army.Despite holding a numerical advantage, the Spanish army suffered
The Marshals of France Before Napoleon (with Jonathan Abel) | Ep 166
Before Napoleon's legendary Marshals, France was already producing some of the greatest military leaders in European history. In this episode, we explore 4 remarkable Marshals of France whose achievements helped shape the French Army long before Austerlitz, Jena, and Waterloo.Special guest Jonathan Abel discusses the Comte de Rochambeau, whose leadership alongside George Washington helped secu
The Louisiana Purchase: Why Napoleon Sold an Empire (with Alexander Mikaberidze) | Ep 165
The Louisiana Purchase: Greatest Real Estate Deal Ever? In 1803, the United States increased in size with the Louisiana Purchase, acquiring more than 800,000 square miles of territory from France for just $15 million. But why did Napoleon sell such a vast empire in North America? In this episode, special guest & author Alexander Mikaberidze will explore the political, military, and economic fa
The Malet Conspiracy: The Coup That Almost Overthrew Napoleon (with Graeme Callister) | Ep 164
During Napoleon’s catastrophic retreat from Russia, another crisis nearly brought down his empire from within. In October 1812, while Napoleon was deep inside Russia, General Malet launched one of the boldest coup attempts in French history—the Malet Conspiracy. Armed with forged documents announcing Napoleon’s death, Malet deceived Paris officials, freed imprisoned generals, arrested senior gover
Napoleon vs. the Catholic Church: Power, Politics, and the Pope (with Ambrogio Caiani) | Ep 163
Discover the complex and often volatile relationship between Napoleon Bonaparte and the Catholic Church—a story filled with ambition, compromise, and conflict. Special guest & author Ambrogio Caiani breaks down how Napoleon went from restoring Catholicism in France to ultimately clashing with the Pope himself.After the chaos of the French Revolution, religion in France was in ruins. Napoleon s
Napoleon's Attack on Berlin: The Gamble That Failed in 1813 (with Michael Leggiere) | Ep 162
In 1813, after the disastrous retreat from Russia, Napoleon faced a growing coalition determined to destroy his empire. In this episode, author Michael Leggiere will explore Napoleon’s attempt to capture Berlin in 1813 and the reasons behind it.Determined to regain the initiative, Napoleon ordered a bold offensive toward Berlin—the capital of Prussia. Napoleon entrusted the operation to 2 of his m
How the Royal Navy Dominated the Napoleonic Wars (with Joshua Meeks) | Ep 161
⚓ Naval Tactics of the Napoleonic Era Explained ⚓Step into the age of sail and discover how naval warfare shaped the fate of empires during the Napoleonic Wars. In this episode, special guest and author Joshua Meeks will break down the key tactics, strategies, and innovations used by legendary commanders like Admiral Nelson.From the devastating effectiveness of the “line of battle” to bold maneuve
Generals La Bédoyère and Cambronne: Napoleon's Loyalists During the Hundred Days (with Jonathan North) | Ep 160
In this episode, special guest & author Jonathan North explores the dramatic story of 2 of the most devoted French officers of the Napoleonic Wars: La Bedoyere and CambronneLa Bédoyère - From his early service in the Grande Armée to his pivotal role in the Emperor’s return during the Hundred Days, La Bédoyère risked everything for Napoleon. When France stood divided after the fall of the Empir
30 Things That Made the Napoleonic Era Fascinating (with Joshua Provan) | Ep 159
Step into the pages of history and explore 30 things we love about the Napoleonic Era—one of the most dramatic, influential, and larger-than-life periods in world history. From Napoleon’s genius to legendary marshals, epic battles, iconic uniforms, and earth-shaking political change, this era reshaped Europe forever.In this episode, author Joshua Provan and I will break down why the Napoleonic Era
General Wittgenstein: The Russian General Who Saved St. Petersburg from Napoleon (with Jimmy Chen) | Ep 158
General Wittgenstein: Russia’s “Savior of St. Petersburg” General Peter Wittgenstein was one of Imperial Russia’s most important commanders during the Napoleonic Wars, earning the nickname “The Savior of St. Petersburg” for stopping Napoleon’s advance in 1812. In this special guest, Jimmy Chen will explore Wittgenstein’s rise through the Russian army, his crucial victories at Kliastitsy and Polots
General Desaix: The General Who Saved Napoleon at Marengo (with Charles Mackay) | Ep 157
General Louis Charles Antoine Desaix was one of Napoleon’s most brilliant and underrated commanders. Known as “the Just Sultan” for his integrity and calm leadership, Desaix played a crucial role in the French Revolutionary Wars and Napoleon’s early rise to power. From his campaigns in Germany to his legendary service in Egypt, Desaix earned a reputation for discipline, humanity, and battlefield b
Wavre and Plancenoit: The Battles That Decided Waterloo? (with Graeme Callister) | Ep 156
Battle of Wavre & Plancenoit (1815) | Napoleon’s Last Campaign & Grouchy’s Controversial StandThe Battle of Wavre, fought on 18–19 June 1815, was the final major engagement of Napoleon’s Hundred Days and one of the most controversial battles of the Napoleonic Wars. While Napoleon faced Wellington at Waterloo, Marshal Grouchy fought the Prussian III Corps under General Thielmann near the to
General Scharnhorst: The Military Genius Who Reformed the Prussian Army (with Ethan Soefje) | Ep 155
General Gerhard von Scharnhorst was the intellectual architect of Prussia’s military revival after its crushing 1806 defeat by Napoleon. In this video, special guest Ethan Soefje explores Scharnhorst’s revolutionary reforms, his role in transforming the Prussian Army, and how his ideas laid the foundations for modern warfare.Discover how Scharnhorst ended aristocratic privilege, introduced merit-b
15 Biggest Surprises and Disasters of the Napoleonic Wars | Ep 154
Discover the Top 15 most surprising moments of the Napoleonic Era—from unexpected battlefield reversals to political shocks that reshaped Europe forever. ⚔️🌍In this video, we explore the events, decisions, and outcomes that defied expectations during the age of Napoleon Bonaparte, including shocking victories, disastrous miscalculations, underestimated people, and turning points that historians st
The Duke of Wellington's Political Career: From Waterloo to Prime Minister (with Marcus Cribb) | Ep 153
The Duke of Wellington wasn’t just the man who defeated Napoleon — he was also one of Britain’s most influential political leaders of the era.In this episode, special guest Marcus Cribb examines Arthur Wellesley’s political career, including his time as Prime Minister, his role in shaping Britain after the Napoleonic Wars, and his controversial decision to support Catholic Emancipation in 1829. Di
The Battle of Bautzen: Napoleon's Pyrrhic Victory of 1813 (with Jonas de Neef) | Ep 152
The Battle of Bautzen (May 20–21, 1813) – Napoleon’s Hard-Fought Victory in the War of the Sixth CoalitionIn today’s episode, special guest Jonas de Neef breaks down the Battle of Bautzen, one of the most intense and strategically intriguing clashes of the 1813 campaign. Fought after Napoleon’s retreat from Russia, Bautzen saw the Emperor attempt to crush the combined Prussian & Russian armies
Frederick William III: The Prussian King Who Defied Napoleon (with Ethan Soefje) | Ep 151
King Frederick William III of Prussia Discover the dramatic life and legacy of King Frederick William III (1770–1840), the Prussian monarch who ruled during one of Europe’s most turbulent eras. This video explores how a shy and reluctant king transformed Prussia after devastating defeats by Napoleon—leading to sweeping military, social, and governmental reforms that helped shape modern Germany.Spe
Wellington's Logistics: How the British Army Won the Peninsular War (with Gareth Glover) | Ep 150
While Napoleon’s armies fought brilliant battles across Spain and Portugal, their greatest enemy wasn’t always the British or the guerrillas — it was logistics.Supplying tens of thousands of soldiers across rugged mountains, scorched plains, and hostile territory tested the limits of Napoleonic warfare. Food shortages, broken supply lines, and guerrilla ambushes made every march a struggle for sur
Dresden: Napoleon's Last Great Victory? (with Winston Valentine) | Ep 149
In August 1813, amid the German Campaign of the Napoleonic Wars, Napoleon faced one of his greatest challenges — the combined might of Austria, Prussia, and Russia. The Battle of Dresden would become his last major battlefield triumph, showcasing his tactical genius even as the empire began to crumble.Special guest Winston Valentine discusses Napoleon’s maneuvers, use of terrain, and daring counte
General Rapp: Napoleon's Fearless Aide-de-Camp and Battlefield Commander (with Jonas de Neef) | Ep 148
Few men stood closer to Napoleon Bonaparte than General Jean Rapp — a fearless soldier, loyal aide-de-camp, and hero of some of the Empire’s fiercest battles. From Austerlitz to Borodino, Rapp’s bravery and devotion made him one of the most respected figures of the Grande Armée.Special guest Jonas de Neef shares how this Alsatian officer rose from humble beginnings to become a Count of the Empire,
The 15 Greatest Battles of the Napoleonic Wars, Part 2 | Ep 147
🎖️ We return for Part II of the Top 15 Battles of the Napoleonic EraStep into the age of empires and ambition — this video counts down the Top 15 Battles of the Napoleonic Era, where strategy, courage, and destiny shaped the course of Europe. From the stunning triumph at Austerlitz to the final reckoning at Waterloo, discover how Napoleon Bonaparte’s genius — and his opponents’ resilience — change
The 15 Greatest Battles of the Napoleonic Wars, Part 1 | Ep 146
🎖️ What Were the Top 15 Battles of the Napoleonic Era? Step into the age of empires and ambition — this video counts down the Top 15 Battles of the Napoleonic Era, where strategy, courage, and destiny shaped the course of Europe. From the stunning triumph at Austerlitz to the final reckoning at Waterloo, discover how Napoleon’s genius — and his opponents’ resilience — changed warfare forever.Join
Napoleon's Rise to Power: From Artillery Officer to Emperor of France (with Rafe Blaufarb) | Ep 145
🌍 From an unknown Corsican artillery lieutenant to Emperor — Napoleon Bonaparte’s rise is one of history’s most dramatic stories. Special guest Rafe Blaufarb joins the show to discuss how Napoleon climbed the ranks during the French Revolution, won stunning victories, and seized power to reshape Europe forever.⚔️ In this video, we’ll cover:Napoleon’s early military career as a young officerHis bre
The Battles of Ligny and Quatre-Bras: The Road to Waterloo (with Gareth Glover) | Ep 144
🔴 The Battles of Ligny & Quatre-Bras | Napoleon’s Final Gamble Begins 🔴In this episode, we dive deep into the critical twin battles that set the stage for Waterloo: Ligny and Quatre-Bras, both fought on June 16, 1815. Special guest & author Gareth Glover discusses how Napoleon's last great victory at Ligny was undercut by missed opportunities, and how the Duke of Wellington's stubborn stan
Napoleon's Return to France: The Emperor's Funeral and Final Resting Place (with Charles Mackay) | Ep 143
Discover the dramatic story of Napoleon Bonaparte’s state funeral and the return of his remains to France in 1840, nearly two decades after his death on Saint Helena. Special guest Charles Mackay joins us to explores the political symbolism, the public reaction, and the elaborate procession that accompanied the Emperor’s final journey through Paris to Les Invalides.Learn why King Louis-Philippe ag
Charles X: The Bourbon Restoration, Napoleon's Legacy, and the July Revolution (with David Montgomery) | Ep 142
👑 Charles X of France – The Last Bourbon King 👑Charles X (1757–1836) was the final reigning monarch of the Bourbon line in France. Brother of Louis XVI and Louis XVIII, Charles inherited the throne in 1824 during the Bourbon Restoration. Special guest & podcaster David Montgomery joins the show to discuss his reign, which was marked by attempts to roll back the French Revolution.Deeply conserv
Bailén 1808: The Spanish Victory That Shocked Napoleon (with Joshua Provan) | Ep 141
The Battle of Bailén (July 16–19, 1808) was a shocking defeat for Napoleon’s forces during the Peninsular War—and the first time a French field army surrendered in open battle. Special guest and author Josh Provan discusses how Spanish General Castaños surrounded and crushed General Dupont’s troops, forcing over 17,000 French soldiers to lay down their arms.This stunning Spanish victory electrifie
General Sebastiani: Napoleon's General, Diplomat, and Survivor (with Jonathan North) | Ep 140
General Horace Sébastiani was more than just a cavalry officer—he was a battlefield commander, imperial diplomat, and political survivor in one of the most turbulent eras in French history. From the thunder of hooves in Spain and Russia to the quiet halls of diplomacy, Sébastiani’s career spanned empires, revolutions, and restorations. Special guest and author Jonathan North joins the show to expl
The 15 Greatest Generals of the Napoleonic Wars, Part 2 | Ep 139
Part II of our Ultimate ranking of the Top 15 Generals of the Napoleonic Era!Step into the boots of the greatest military minds of the Napoleonic Wars. In this episode of Generals and Napoleon, we count down the Top 15 generals of the Napoleonic Era—the brilliant, bold, and often controversial commanders who shaped European history between 1796 and 1815. Join our brilliant panel of guests - Rachae
The 15 Greatest Generals of the Napoleonic Wars, Part 1 | Ep 138
🎖️ Who Were the Top 15 Generals of the Napoleonic Era? Step into the greatest military minds of the Napoleonic Wars. In this episode of Generals and Napoleon, we count down the Top 15 generals of the Napoleonic Era—the brilliant, bold, and often controversial commanders who shaped European history between 1796 and 1815. Join our brilliant panel of guests - Rachael Stark, Graeme Callister, Nick Kra
Napoleon's Parents: Carlo and Letizia Bonaparte (with John Kuehn) | Ep 137
Discover the untold story of Napoleon Bonaparte’s parents — Carlo Buonaparte and Letizia Ramolino — and how their influence shaped the future Emperor of France. 🏛️Special guest John Kuehn joins the show to help us dive into the lives of this Corsican couple:Carlo Buonaparte, a lawyer and political opportunist, who navigated the turbulent politics of 18th-century Corsica.Letizia Ramolino, Napoleon’
The Battle of Trafalgar: How Nelson Defeated Napoleon at Sea (with Joshua Meeks) | Ep 136
In this episode, we explore the Battle of Trafalgar, the decisive naval clash of October 21, 1805, where Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson and the Royal Navy shattered Napoleon Bonaparte’s hopes of invading Britain. Learn how Nelson’s bold tactics, including the famous two-column attack, defeated the combined French and Spanish fleets under Admiral Villeneuve, securing British naval supremacy for more t
General Dąbrowski (Dombrowski): Napoleon's Polish General and the Polish Legions (with Jonathan North) | Ep 135
In this episode, we explore the life and legacy of General Jan Henryk Dombrowski, the Polish patriot who fought to restore his nation’s independence—on and off the battlefield.From the formation of the Polish Legions in Italy to his leadership under Napoleon Bonaparte, Dombrowski became a symbol of national resilience and pride. Special guest Jonathan North joins the show to examine his key milita
The Battle of Talavera: Wellington's First Great Victory in Spain (with Josh Provan) | Ep 134
In this episode, we examine the Battle of Talavera (July 27–28, 1809), a hard-fought clash of the Peninsular War where Sir Arthur Wellesley, later the Duke of Wellington, won his first major battlefield victory over Napoleon’s marshals in Spain. Facing the French armies of Marshal Victor and King Joseph Bonaparte, British and Spanish forces held firm against repeated attacks under brutal summer co
Napoleon's Military Strategy: The Genius Behind His Greatest Victories (with Jonathan Abel) | Ep 133
In this episode, we break down Napoleon’s military strategies and the battlefield principles that made him the most feared commander of the Napoleonic Wars. From the corps system and rapid maneuver to central position, decisive battle, and relentless pursuit, Napoleon reshaped how wars were fought across Europe.Special guest & podcaster Jonathan Abel explores how Napoleon used speed, deception
Clausewitz vs. Jomini: Two Competing Theories of War (with Joshua Meeks) | Ep 132
Clausewitz and Jomini were two of the most influential military thinkers in history. Both experienced the Napoleonic Wars, both studied the campaigns of Napoleon, and both attempted to answer the same fundamental question: What makes armies win wars? But they reached very different conclusions.In this episode, special guest Joshua Meeks will compare Clausewitz vs. Jomini and examine how two vetera
The Battle of Lützen: Napoleon's Comeback Victory of 1813 (with Jonas de Neef) | Ep 131
In this episode, we examine the Battle of Lützen (May 2, 1813), Napoleon’s first major battle after the disaster in Russia and the opening clash of the War of the Sixth Coalition. Facing the combined Russian and Prussian armies under Wittgenstein and Blücher, Napoleon’s rebuilt Grande Armée fought a brutal struggle across the villages of Grossgörschen, Kaja, and Rahna.Special guest & blogger J
General Loison: Napoleon's Infamous “Maneta” of the French Army (with Charles Mackay) | Ep 130
In this episode, we examine General Loison, one of Napoleon’s most notorious generals during the Peninsular War. Nicknamed “Maneta” or "One-Hand" by his opponents, Loison earned a brutal reputation for his harsh counter-insurgency operations, scorched-earth tactics, and ruthless discipline—methods that fueled resistance rather than crushed it.Special guest Charles Mackay traces Loison’s rise durin
The Battle of Albuera: The Bloodiest Day of the Peninsular War (with Marcus Beresford) | Ep 129
In this episode, we examine the Battle of Albuera (May 16, 1811), the bloodiest battles of the Peninsular War. British, Portuguese, and Spanish forces under Marshal Beresford faced the French Army led by Marshal Soult in a savage struggle marked by relentless infantry combat and catastrophic casualties.Special guest Marcus Beresford breaks down Soult’s bold flanking attack, the desperate stand of
General Montbrun: The Cavalry Commander Napoleon Trusted Most (with Jonas de Neef) | Ep 128
One of more striking figures in Napoleon's cavalry squadrons was the imposing General Montbrun. Special guest and blogger Jonas de Neef joins the show to discuss this intrepid commander of the Grande Armee who died on the battlefield of Borodino.X/Twitter: @andnapoleon
The Battle of Eylau: The Blueprint for Defeating Napoleon? (with Alexander Mikaberidze) | Ep 127
The 1807 Battle of Eylau was a bloody stalemate that inflicted horrendous casualties on both sides. It may have also provided a blueprint on how to defeat Napoleon. Special guest & author Alexander Mikaberidze discusses the monumental clash between Napoleon's Grande Armee and the Russian army. X/Twitter: @AMikaberidze, @andnapoleon
General Morand: The Forgotten General Who Served Marshal Davout (with Charles Mackay) | Ep 126
In this episode, we explore General Charles Antoine Morand, one of Napoleon’s most capable battlefield commanders and a key figure in Marshal Davout’s III Corps. As a commander of division, Morand helped make Davout’s corps the most disciplined and feared formation in the Grande Armée.Special guest Charles Mackay follows Morand’s career through the great battles of the Napoleonic Wars, including A
Battle of the Nile: Nelson's Masterpiece Against Napoleon (with John Kuehn) | Ep 125
⚓ The Battle of the Nile: Nelson Destroys Napoleon’s FleetOn August 1, 1798, British Admiral Horatio Nelson found the French fleet anchored in Aboukir Bay, Egypt. What followed was one of the most decisive naval battles of the age—and a devastating blow to Napoleon’s campaign in Egypt.In this episode, we explore the Battle of the Nile, also known as the Battle of Aboukir Bay, and explain how Nelso
The French Invasion of Ireland, 1796: How France Nearly Invaded Ireland (with Ciaran McDonnell) | Ep 124
In December 1796, the French Republic launched a bold attempt to invade Ireland and spark a rebellion against British rule. Special guest Ciaran McDonnell discusses the French expedition, the reasons for its failure, and its ramifications. Led by General Lazare Hoche and supported by Wolfe Tone and the United Irishmen, this massive expedition of 15,000 troops was meant to ignite a nationwide upris
General Friant: Napoleon's “Immortal” General Under Marshal Davout (with Charles Mackay) | Ep 123
General Louis Friant was not flashy—but he was one of Napoleon’s most reliable and effective commanders. Known for his discipline, speed, and precision on the battlefield, Friant played a critical role in many of the French Empire’s greatest victories, often commanding veterans of the Imperial Guard with iron resolve. Special guest Charles Mackay joins the show once again and tells us all about th
Lallemand and Lefebvre-Desnouettes: Napoleon's Diehard Generals (with Jonathan North) | Ep 122
⚔️ General LallemandSpecial guest & author Jonathan North joins us for an exclusive double episode of Napoleon's generals. General Lallemand lived a life of bold ambition, shifting loyalties, and transatlantic adventure. A skilled cavalry commander in Napoleon’s army, Lallemand fought in some of the Empire’s fiercest campaigns—yet his story didn’t end at Waterloo.✅ His cavalry service under th
The Battle of Aspern-Essling: Napoleon's First Major Defeat (with Nick Kramer) | Ep 121
The Battle of Aspern-Essling, fought on May 21–22, 1809, was one of the most important battles of the Napoleonic Wars—and the first major battlefield defeat suffered by Napoleon against an opposing European army.In this episode, special guest Nick Kramer explores Napoleon's attempt to cross the Danube River near Vienna and the fierce two-day battle that followed. The French Army faced the Aust
Congress of Vienna: How Europe Was Rebuilt After Napoleon (with Evan Wilson) | Ep 120
After more than two decades of revolution and war, Napoleon had been defeated and exiled. Europe’s victorious powers now faced an enormous question: How do you rebuild a continent after Napoleon?The answer was the Congress of Vienna, one of the most important diplomatic gatherings in European history. Meeting from 1814 to 1815, representatives from Europe’s great powers gathered in Vienna to redra
General Dorsenne: The Man Who Commanded Napoleon's Imperial Guard (with Patrick du Bois) | Ep 119
General Jean-Marie-Pierre-François Dorsenne was one of Napoleon Bonaparte's distinguished generals and a commander whose career was closely tied to the elite Imperial Guard. Known for his leadership, courage, and service during some of the most demanding campaigns of the Napoleonic Wars, Dorsenne rose to command the prestigious Old Guard.In this episode, special guest Patrick du Bois will expl
General Suvorov: The Russian Commander Who Never Lost a Battle (with John Kuehn) | Ep 118
The Russian General Who Never Lost a BattleAlexander Suvorov was one of the greatest military commanders of the 18th century—and one of the few legendary European generals Napoleon Bonaparte never faced in battle.In this episode, we explore the remarkable career of Generalissimo Alexander Suvorov, the brilliant Russian commander famous for his aggressive tactics, rapid marches, relentless training
Napoleonic Wars Q&A: Answering Your Questions About Napoleon (with Marcus Cribb) | Ep 117
📨 You asked, we answered! In this Napoleonic Wars Mailbag Q&A, we take on your best questions about Napoleon, the generals, epic battles, tactics, and more. From the myths of Waterloo to underrated generals, we’re digging into history and setting the record straight. One of the best things about hosting this podcast - the amount of great questions we receive from our listeners and Patreon memb
Napoleon's Paris: How Napoleon Transformed the French Capital (with David Buttery) | Ep 116
Napoleon Bonaparte is remembered primarily as a military commander, but his impact on Paris was enormous. During his reign, Napoleon launched ambitious public works projects that helped transform the French capital, improving its infrastructure, monuments, transportation, water supply, and public spaces.In this episode, David Buttery will explore Napoleon's upgrades to Paris and the ambitious
Napoleon's Conscripts: What Life Was Like for Soldiers in the Napoleonic Wars (with Graeme Callister) | Ep 115
Napoleon’s Conscripts: What Life Was Really Like for Soldiers in the Napoleonic WarsWhat was it actually like to serve in Napoleon’s Grande Armée? Behind Napoleon’s legendary victories were hundreds of thousands of ordinary men—many of them conscripts—who marched across Europe, endured brutal conditions, and fought in some of the most famous battles in military history.In this episode, special gue
Napoleon's Influence on Churchill and Hitler: Lessons from the Emperor (with Warren Dockter) | Ep 114
Napoleon’s Influence on Churchill and Hitler: How the Emperor’s Legacy Shaped WWIIMore than a century after Napoleon Bonaparte’s fall, his victories, mistakes, ambitions, and extraordinary career continued to fascinate the leaders of Europe. Among those who studied and invoked Napoleon were two of the most consequential figures of World War II: Winston Churchill and Adolf Hitler.But what influenc
Wellington's Great Wall: The Lines of Torres Vedras and the Defeat of Masséna (with Mark S. Thompson) | Ep 113
The Lines of Torres Vedras were one of the most remarkable defensive systems of the Napoleonic Wars. Built in secret north of Lisbon during the Peninsular War, these massive fortifications helped stop Marshal André Masséna's French army during the 1810 invasion of Portugal and played a crucial role in the eventual Allied victory under the Duke of Wellington.Special guest Mark S. Thompson will
How Napoleon's Armies Fought: Napoleonic Tactics Explained (with Major Michael Hamel)| Ep 112
How Napoleon’s Armies Fought: Napoleonic Tactics ExplainedHow did Napoleon’s armies actually fight battles? What made the Grande Armée so successful, and how did Napoleon combine infantry, cavalry, and artillery to defeat the armies of Europe?In this episode, special guest Major Michael Hamel will break down the battlefield tactics of the Napoleonic Wars and explain how Napoleon’s armies operated—
Napoleon's Imperial Guard: The Elite Soldiers Who Fought for the Emperor (with Michael Broers) | Ep 111
Napoleon’s Imperial Guard: The Elite Soldiers of the Grande ArméeThey were Napoleon Bonaparte’s most famous soldiers—the veterans, cavalrymen, artillerymen, and elite troops of the Imperial Guard. Feared by Napoleon’s enemies and revered throughout the Grande Armée, the Guard became one of the most legendary military formations of the Napoleonic Wars.But who were the men of Napoleon’s Imperial Gua
Lord Uxbridge: The British Commander Who Lost His Leg at Waterloo (with Marcus Cribb) | Ep 110
Henry Paget, 2nd Earl of Uxbridge, was one of Britain’s finest cavalry commanders of the Napoleonic Wars—and the man who commanded the Duke of Wellington’s cavalry at the Battle of Waterloo. A daring battlefield leader with a colorful personal life, Uxbridge is also remembered for one of the most famous exchanges in military history after a cannonball shattered his leg near the end of the battle.I
Who Would Succeed Napoleon? The French Empire's Succession Crisis (with Katherine Bayford) | Ep 109
Napoleon Bonaparte conquered much of Europe and built one of the most powerful empires of the 19th century—but there was one problem even Napoleon could not solve on the battlefield: who would succeed him?In this episode, special guest Katherine Bayford will explore Napoleon’s succession crisis, one of the most important political and personal challenges of his reign. After declaring himself Emper
Marshal Lannes: Napoleon's “Fireman” and His Greatest Battles (with Graeme Callister) | Ep 108
🔥 Marshal Jean Lannes: Napoleon’s FiremanWhen Napoleon found himself in the most desperate situations, there was one marshal he repeatedly trusted to hold the line, lead the attack, and somehow turn disaster into victory: Jean Lannes.Known for his extraordinary courage, aggressive battlefield leadership, and close personal relationship with Napoleon, Marshal Lannes rose from humble beginnings to b
Marshal Marmont: Napoleon's Judas and His Controversial Life After 1815 (with David Montgomery) | Ep 107
Marshal Marmont: Napoleon’s Marshal and His Controversial Life After 1815Few of Napoleon’s Marshals left behind a more controversial legacy than Auguste de Marmont, Duke of Ragusa. Once a trusted friend and commander of Napoleon, Marmont fought across Europe during the Napoleonic Wars—but his actions during the fall of the French Empire would forever change how history remembered him.In this epis
Vitoria 1813: The Battle That Drove Napoleon From Spain (with Josh Provan) | Ep 106
The Battle of Vitoria, fought on June 21, 1813, was one of the most decisive Allied victories of the Peninsular War and a devastating blow to Napoleon’s empire. Led by Arthur Wellesley, the future Duke of Wellington, the Allied army smashed the forces of King Joseph Bonaparte and Marshal Jean-Baptiste Jourdan, effectively ending French domination of Spain.In this episode, special guest & autho
Caroline Bonaparte: The Scheming Sister Who Challenged Napoleon (with Katherine Bayford) | Ep 105
Caroline Bonaparte was far more than Napoleon's youngest sister. Ambitious, intelligent, and politically influential, she played a significant role in the rise and fall of the Napoleonic Empire. As the wife of Marshal Joachim Murat and later Queen of Naples, Caroline navigated the turbulent world of European politics, power, and war during one of history's most dramatic eras.In this episod
How Napoleon's Marshal Became King of Sweden: The Story of Bernadotte (with Fredrik Eriksson) | Ep 104
How did one of Napoleon's Marshals become the King of Sweden?In this episode, we explore the remarkable story of Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte, the French Revolutionary general and Marshal of the Empire who rose from humble beginnings in southwestern France to become King Charles XIV John of Sweden. Few figures of the Napoleonic Era experienced a more extraordinary journey. Fredrik Eriksson tells u
General Kellermann: Napoleon's Master of Cavalry (with Charles Mackay) | Ep 103
General François Étienne de Kellermann, son of Marshal François Christophe Kellermann, carved out his own reputation as one of the most daring cavalry commanders of the Napoleonic Wars. While his father became famous for helping save France at Valmy, the younger Kellermann earned his fame at the head of charging French cavalry.In this episode, special guest Charles Mackay reviews the remarkable ca
General Belliard: The Man Behind Murat's Cavalry (with Jonathan North) | Ep 102
General Belliard was one of Napoleon’s most experienced cavalry commanders and diplomats—a soldier whose remarkable career took him from the battlefields of the French Revolution to Egypt, Austerlitz, Spain, Russia, Waterloo, and beyond.In this episode, special guest Jonathan North will explore the fascinating life and military career of General Belliard, an officer who served alongside some of th
The Battle of Austerlitz: Napoleon's Greatest Victory (with Jonathan Abel) | Ep 101
The Battle of Austerlitz, fought on December 2, 1805, is widely regarded as Napoleon Bonaparte's greatest victory. Known as the Battle of the Three Emperors, Austerlitz saw Napoleon's French army face the combined forces of Russia and Austria in a campaign that would reshape Europe and cement his reputation as one of history's greatest military commanders.In this episode, special guest
General Vandamme: Napoleon's Hot-Tempered Firebrand (with David Buttery) | Ep 100
In this episode, David Buttery will examine the life and military career of General Vandamme, a hard-fighting French commander whose battlefield courage and tactical skill earned him the respect of Napoleon, even as his fiery temperament and reputation for harshness made him one of the most feared generals in Europe.From the French Revolutionary Wars to the height of the Napoleonic Empire, Vandamm
Killing Napoleon: Assassination attempts on the Emperor (with Jonathan North) | Ep 99
Few leaders in history faced as many assassination plots as Napoleon Bonaparte. From royalist conspiracies and bomb attacks to daring schemes organized by political enemies, Napoleon survived multiple attempts on his life during his rise from revolutionary general to Emperor of France.In this episode, special guest & author Jonathan North will explore the most famous assassination attempts aga
Admiral Hood: British Naval Power in the Napoleonic Era (with Oliver Webb-Carter) | Ep 98
Admiral Samuel Hood was one of Britain's most capable and aggressive naval commanders during the age of sail. Serving during the American Revolutionary War and the French Revolutionary Wars, Hood helped shape the traditions and tactics that would later influence the Royal Navy during the Napoleonic Era.In this episode, special guest Oliver Webb-Carter will explore the remarkable life and caree
General Kléber: The General Who Took Command After Napoleon Left Egypt (with Michael Hamel) | Ep 97
General Jean-Baptiste Kléber was one of the most talented and respected commanders of the French Revolutionary Wars. A towering figure both physically and militarily, Kléber earned a reputation for bravery, leadership, and tactical skill, becoming one of Napoleon's most capable generals during the campaigns of the French Republic.In this episode, special guest Michael Hamel explores the life a
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