French Revolution & Napoleon (Grey History)
This podcast explores the complexities and nuances of the French Revolution and Napoleon, challenging black-and-white narratives. It delves into the origins of the revolution, from the late eighteenth century through the reigns of Louis XIV and Louis XV, and examines the impact of the American Revolutionary War on France. The show contrasts contemporary experiences with historical interpretations, unpacking the fall of the Old Regime and the summoning of the Estates-General. It is recommended by universities and loved by enthusiasts of French Revolution and Napoleon history.
Episodes
Members-Only: Recap of 1793
We unpack the chaos of 1793! From the execution of Louis XVI and the fall of Dumouriez to the Vendée uprising, the Federalist revolts, and the birth of revolutionary government — this recap traces how France descended into the Terror. The full breakdown is available now as a members-only bonus episode on Patreon, along with ad-free listening and our full bonus archive.
The Grey History Community
Grand Dukes of the West: Reform and Revolution
Guest episode from Josh Zucker of the Grand Dukes of the West.
The Grey History Community
Help keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its supporters, and we need you! With an ad-free feed, a community discord, a reading club, and tonnes of exclusive bonus content, you're missing out! Do your part for as little as half a cup of coffee per episode! It's the best value on the intern
The Siècle: Return of the King
Guest episode from David Montgomery of the Siècle, covering French history from 1814-1914.
The Grey History Community
Help keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its supporters, and we need you! With an ad-free feed, a community discord, a reading club, and tonnes of exclusive bonus content, you're missing out! Do your part for as little as half a cup of coffee per episode! It's t
The Age of Napoleon: Sacrifice
Guest episode from Everett Rummage and the fantastic Age of Napoleon podcast.
The Grey History Community
Help keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its supporters, and we need you! With an ad-free feed, a community discord, a reading club, and tonnes of exclusive bonus content, you're missing out! Do your part for as little as half a cup of coffee per episode! It's the best valu
Show Update 2026
The plans for 1794 and 2026!
The Grey History Community
Help keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its supporters, and we need you! With an ad-free feed, a community discord, a reading club, and tonnes of exclusive bonus content, you're missing out! Do your part for as little as half a cup of coffee per episode! It's the best value on the internet, with the best people too!
1.108 The Vendée Genocide with Historian Reynald Secher
Was there a genocide in the Vendée?
Joined by Historian Reynald Secher, we reexamine the violence in the west. In this interview episode, Dr Secher explains his thesis on a French Genocide, responds to his critics, and examines the violent conflict which remains the source of much controversy. We also discuss the ongoing debate over how these events should be interpreted and remembered in the mod
1.107 Robespierre to the Rescue
Horrified that a foreign plot was destroying the Republic, Robespierre moved to halt the dechristianisation campaign. Motivated by practical, ideological, and political concerns, the influential Jacobin launched a blistering counterattack against radical anti-clericalism. In this struggle, he achieved only mixed success. Yet on the question of Revolutionary Government, Robespierre and his allies s
Two New 2026 Tours: Christmas Markets & Revolutionary Paris
I’m thrilled to announce two new small-group tours for 2026!
The first is a 6-day French Revolution & Napoleon tour in Paris this October.
The second is a 10-day Christmas Markets & History tour across France, Germany, and Austria this December.
JOIN THE WAITLIST
They are two very different journeys, but both are built around the same idea: thoughtful, history-led travel for people who want mo
Q&A The People's Voice Part III
From the Cult of Reason to the Caribbean colonies, this Q&A episode unpacks your questions on a range of topics and hypotheticals!Questions include:
1. Could the Cult of Reason ever succeed?
2. Were “federalist” constitutional priests a real threat, or Jacobin paranoia?
3. Did universal male suffrage in 1793 include the colonies? What about slavery?
4. Is Fouché’s rise already underway, or is
1.106 Piedmont-Sardinia with Christopher Storrs
Wedged between France and Austria, Piedmont-Sardinia is one of the most overlooked powers of the French Revolutionary Wars. Best remembered for unifying Italy in the 19th century, this episode unpacks the kingdom's early success and unique composition. Along the way, we touch on Admiral Nelson, the Polish Partition, and debates regarding the memory of Italian unification.Thank you to Dr Christophe
1.105 Republican Calendar with Matt Shaw (MEMBERS ONLY)
A new calendar for a new France! From high hopes to utter confusion, Matt Shaw joins us to unpack the calendar's turbulent history. Explore the calendar’s gradual creation, its uneven adoption, and the Directory’s aggressive attempts to reinforce its use well after the Terror. We also discuss why Napoleon ultimately abolished the Republican calendar, and the last legacy of this infamous reform.
Revolutionary Paris with The French History Podcast
I join the French History Podcast to discuss three overlooked sites of Revolutionary Paris! From the famous to the forgotten, enjoy the history of these key revolutionary landmarks.
For another great podcast on the French Revolution, check out Dr. Gary Girod's French History Podcast!
May 2026 Tour
Bookings now live: Grey History’s French Revolution Tour (May 2026)
Book Your Place Here
Stand
Book Now: French Revolution Tour May 2026
Bookings now live: Grey History’s French Revolution Tour (May 2026)
Book Your Place Here
Stand in Marie Antoinette’s cell. Recreate the storming of the Bastille. Spend a full day at Versailles.
Bookings are now live for Grey History’s French Revolution Tour, running 12–19 May 2026: eight days across Paris and the Loire Valley, designed and hosted by Will Clark.
Highlights include five nights i
Christmas Special: How the French stole Christmas with History Dispatches
I joined the team at History Dispatches for a fun Christmas special. Together, we explore the Revolution’s fraught relationship with the Catholic Church, and how festive cheer was targeted during the dechristianisation campaign of 1793.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Revolutionary France Tour - Join Me In Paris in May 2026!
Book Now. Places are filling fast!
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1.104 The Cult of Reason
No Sundays, no saints, no salvation.
As dechristianisation exploded in the capital, radical revolutionaries closed churches, forced abdications, and turned Notre-Dame into a Temple of Reason. Seeking to replace past errors with enlightenment values, the Cult of Reason was established with mixed success.
This episode explores the dramatic escalation of dechristianisation, including the creation o
1.103 Dechristianisation
A new crusade! Determined to purge superstition and fanaticism in all its forms, anti-clerical zeal erupts across the French Republic.
This episode uncovers how Joseph Fouché’s campaign in central France helped ignite a national movement. From the forced marriages of priests to the destruction of churches, we explore the many dimensions of dechristianisation. We also trace the rising tensions bet
1.102 The French East India Company with Dr Elizabeth Cross
Fortune, fraud, and the fall of empires. Dr Elizabeth Cross joins Grey History to uncover the turbulent history of the French East India Company.
From royal privilege to revolutionary scandal, this episode traces how the troubled company became a symbol of greed and speculation. Often compared to its more successful rival, we’ll also touch on the challenges faced by the British East India Company
May 2026 Paris Tour! Get Your Early Access Pass!
You’ve listened to the Revolution — now it’s time to live it!
I’m thrilled to announce that Grey History Tours are officially happening in 2026! Our first trip will take place in Paris in mid-May, and will run for about a week (approximately 12–19 May).
We’ll walk the same streets as Lafayette and Robespierre, explore Versailles Palace, and even recreate the Storming of the Bastille. From Marie
1.101 The Foreign Plot
Lies and deception imploded the Jacobin Republic. Needing to save themselves from accusations of corruption, multiple deputies invented foreign plots to mask their own conspiracies. Destroying trust while incriminating innocents, these fabrications are essential to understanding the fall of the Jacobins.
This episode explores how Fabre d’Églantine and François Chabot created the “Foreign Plot”
1.100 Revolutionary Until The Peace
After five years of turmoil, France needed a government. But how? With the Republic increasingly controlled by “rogues and scoundrels,” the battle was on for the Revolution’s future. Assailed from all sides, the Committee of Public Safety emerged triumphant.
This episode traces Robespierre’s parliamentary victory of 25 September 1793, Saint-Just’s decree of “Revolutionary Government” on 10 Octo
2026 France Tours - Your Feedback Is Needed!
Explore France in 2026!This is your chance to experience French history together in person. Please complete the short survey to help design the first Grey History Tours. Everyone who takes part will be eligible for exclusive discounts when the tours are announced.
Take the survey HERE. It will take less than 5 minutes and it's almost all multiple choice!
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/B8WPLTG
L
1.99 English & French Revolutions with History of England Part II
From influence to imitation, the discussion continues with David Crowther of The History of England podcast. We also explore how the English Revolution influenced events in France, why the revolutions diverged so sharply, and in what ways the new regimes replicated the worst aspects of the old.
Early Access
Become a True Revolutionary and listen now to Episode 100 Revolutionary Until The Peace!
1.99 English & French Revolutions with History of England Part I
Two kings, two revolutions, and two podcasters ready to unpack it all!
In this collaboration with David Crowther of The History of England, we explore the English and French Revolutions. Part I examines the characters of Charles I and Louis XVI, their trials and missed opportunities, the role of religion, and the constitutional experiments of both upheavals. Part II will continue the discussion,
1.98 Vendée with Jean-Clément Martin
From monsters to myths, this episode unpacks the Vendée with Professor Jean-Clément Martin.
One of the foremost authorities on the civil war, Martin shows how factional politics transformed local unrest into a national catastrophe. We explore how chaos and rivalries drove atrocities, why the conflict cannot be defined as genocide, and why “the Terror” should be seen not as historical reality bu
1.97 Vendée: Extermination
From the mass drownings to hell columns, this episode charts the Republic’s campaign to exterminate the western rebellion. Uncover the rivalries and atrocities that turned victory into massacre, and the controversial question of whether these events amount to genocide.
Bonus Content1.97.1 Thoughts on the Genocide Debate1.97.2 Paris and the Mass Drownings at Nantes1.97.3 Orphans of the Vendée
Ven
1.96 Vendée: The March to Hell
Searching for salvation, the royalists found hell. Retreat became catastrophe, and battles turned to massacres. This episode explores the rise of ultra-radical commanders and the Convention’s embrace of total war. It unpacks military defeats on both sides, factional chaos within Republican ranks, and the final collapse of the royalist cause following their doomed march to Granville.
Bonus Content
Members Update July 2025
Episode 97: Vendée Extermination
Coming August 15, this landmark episode will explore the Republic’s campaign of extermination in the Vendée. It will unpack the secret drownings in Nantes, the hell columns of 1794, and the genocide debate which still grips modern France.
This episode will also have three Episode Extras exclusively for members!
Remember Episode 96 Vendée: The March To Hell is al
1.95 Vendée: Nantes or Nothing
As the royalists surged through western France, the Republic’s response was pitiful. But when the time came to strike at Paris itself, the insurgents chose Nantes instead. This episode charts the defining battles of early 1793. From tremendous triumphs to stunning failures, unpack the chaos and bloodshed of the civil war in the Vendée.
Bonus Content
1.95.1 Generals and Guillotines
Unpack the gr
1.94 Vendée: Made in Paris (Bonus)
Baptised and weaponised in the capital’s factional struggles, this episode explores how Parisian politics created “the Vendée.” What began as scattered unrest became a manufactured menace: the ultimate threat to revolutionary France. From draconian laws to dysfunctional commands, discover how factional chaos in Paris turned rebellion into massacre and set the stage for accusations of genocide.
1.93.1 Hills, Hedges, and Humble Clerics
Unpack a royalist's account on the importance of religion in the Vendée, and why the topography of the Vendée was so beneficial to the defending insurrectionists!
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1.93 Vendée: Civil War (Recap)
The inferno ignites. Arguably the most divisive theatre of the French Revolution, it’s time to return to the west.
This episode is a repost of Episode 1.55 Civil War in the Vendée, exploring the dramatic outbreak of rebellion in March 1793. We’ll unpack the origins of the insurrection, its initial stages, and the many debates that still divide historians. What role did religion play? How signific
The People's Voice Part II
From abandoned palaces to Revolutionary executions, this Q&A dives into five gripping questions from the community!
Why didn’t Louis XVI flee during the October Days of 1789?
What became of Versailles after the royal family moved to Paris?
Why didn’t the Royal Navy intervene during the 1793 Siege of Dunkirk?
Were there more “polite” versions of Republican marriages and baptisms?
Why did the
1.92 Revolution & Total War with Dr David Bell
From war crimes and Terror to Napoleon and nationalism, unpack the fascinating dynamics of total war in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
This interview with Dr David Avrom Bell explores the changing nature of warfare, the impact of the Enlightenment on total war, and the importance of rhetoric in this consequential struggle. We also examine controversial debates, including allegation
1.91 Lazare Carnot: Organiser of Victory
Scientist. Patriot. Engineer. Revolutionary. Explore the many faces of Lazare Carnot, the famed Organiser of Victory. Perhaps the most celebrated member of the Committee of Public Safety, this episode tracks his ascent to the heights of revolutionary government. From military prison to singing societies, prepare for an unusual career.
Sponsor: Lingopie
Get 55% off a Lingopie subscription to le
1.90.1 The Spanish Front: Questions & Answers
From Catalans to Wars of Independence, Michael Hamel is back to anwer listener questions on the war with Spain!
Learn More
The Roussillon Campaign of 1793-94: Spain’s Lost Opportunity – Age of Revolutions
War Studies Journal 2
The Grey History Community
Help keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its supporters, and we need you! With an ad-free feed, a community discord,
1.90 Spain & The War of the Pyrenees with Michael Hamel
From success to disaster, explore Spain's war effort with Major Michael Hamel. Unpack the state of the Spanish Empire prior to 1789, the outbreak of war, and why Hamel defends Spanish leaders who other historians condemn. A complete account of the Pyrenees front, enjoy this fantastic interview on an overlook conflict!
Sponsor: Lingopie
Get 55% off a Lingopie subscription to learn French and 11
1.89 The Republic Strikes Back!
Victories and triumphs! Surrounded, betrayed, and seemingly on the brink of collapse, the summer of 1793 was a dark era for the Republic. However, in a series of desperate battles, armies of citizen-soldiers defied the odds. Unpack the dramatic turning points of the War of the First Coalition — a story of blunders, brilliance, and battlefield miracles.
This episode examines the Battle of Hondsc
The People's Voice Part I
Your Questions Answered! From the influence of Ancient Rome to using Terror for personal advantage, this Q&A episode unpacks a variety of fascinating topics!
Questions include:
1) Did the revolutionaries know of Ancient Roman attempts to control prices?
2) Was hoarding and speculation common? What was driving food shortages? Were shortages occurring across the Republic?
3) Did regular people
1.88 Total War II: Leadership and Tactics
Blood and bayonets! Amidst war and revolution, the French Republic must rebuild its shattered officer corps and overhaul outdated tactics. From the rise of meritocracy to the birth of a bold new military doctrine, discover how revolutionary France redefined modern warfare and prepared an unbelievable comeback!
Early Access
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1.87 Total War I: Conscription and Propaganda
For the Republic! Desperate and surrounded, the French government embarks on an unprecedented embrace of 'total war'. Upending the traditional means of warfare, the Convention commences mass conscriptions and coordinated propaganda campaigns. Both the levée en masse and it's propaganda efforts are a prelude to the modern wars of the 20th century and act as key turning points in the development of
1.86 Defeats and Dysfunction
War returns! Surrounded by enemies on every frontier, the French Republic was desperate and divided. Luckily for the French, their foes were no less dysfunctional.
This episode recaps the War of the First Coalition, from its origins and opening stages to the traitorous betrayal of General Dumouriez. It also examines the summer campaign of 1793, with the Prussians besieging Mainz and Anglo-Austria
1.85 Virtue, Friendship and Terror with Dr Marisa Linton
How did virtue and friendship shape the French Revolution and the Terror?
This interview with Dr Marisa Linton examines the how the politics of virtue shaped the revolutionary era and the development of the Terror. It also explores the important dynamics of friendships and how both relationships and virtue were weaponized to political advantage. From the Fall of the Girondins to the denouncement
1.84 Yesterday's Heroes
The revolution devours its children! From princes to mayors, politicians to priests, explore the ultimate fate of yesterday's heroes!
This main episode unpacks the rise and demise of the Duke of Orléans (Philippe Égalité) and Madame Roland. Two controversial figures who were once proud Jacobins, the revolution had turned on its biggest supporters.
Episode Extra
1.84.1 Dead or Alive?
Examine the
Community Poll: Topics for Total War!
Vote Now! Total war is upon us! With the French armies in retreat, the Republic had no choice but to adapt. Developing a new era of modern warfare, the French army underwent radical transformations.
Episode 87 "Total War" will unpack the revolution of warfare. As such, I want your thoughts on the topics we should explore!
Please vote for those you’re most interested in (you can vote for multiple
1.83 Trial of the Girondins Part II
Death to all traitors! This episode explores the controversial trial of the Girondins in October 1793. With limited evidence and endless accusations, leading Girondin deputies were guillotined en-masse. Was it justice or a tragedy?
Episode Extra
1.83.1 The Fate of the Fugitives
With the number of proscribed deputies multiplying over several months, explore the fate of those Girondins who were mi
1.82 Trial of the Girondins Part I
With the Queen dead, the Girondins were next. Condemned for every mishap and misfortune, dozens of deputies were sent to trial. In additional efforts to eliminate the menace, the Convention was purged again.
Members Q&A
An upcoming Q&A episode will focus on your questions from the show trials of late 1793! If you have any questions regarding the trials of Marie Antoinette, the Girondins, or othe
1.81 Trial of Queen Marie Antoinette
With terror the order of the day, Queen Marie Antoinette is placed on trial. Accused of every crime imaginable, the nation’s anger is released upon the Austrian Monster. With Hébert accusing the Queen of the most scandalous of crimes, these events were used as a tool for reaction for decades to come.
This episode explores the creation of the guillotine and the trial and execution of Marie Antoinet
Special Episode: Christmas in Revolutionary France
Faced with the dechristianization campaign of 1793, Christmas looked very different in the French Republic!
This episode explores how worship, traditions, and celebrations all changed enormously in revolutionary France.
As always, thank you for your support of the show! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 81 "The Trial of Queen Mar
1.80 The Terror Begins
Compelled to make Terror the order of the day, the Convention decreed a series of emergency measures. From price controls to the arrest of all suspects, the principles of 1789 were temporarily suspended. The Terror had begun!
This episode explores the Revolutionary Army, the Law of the General Maximum, and the Law of Suspects. It also examines the arrest of Jacques Roux and the Enraged (Enragés) i
1.79 Triumph of the Sans-Culottes
Make terror the order of the day! With news of Toulon's treason hitting a hungry capital, insurrection returns to Paris. Spurred on by the ultraradical factions, the people demand food and the means the seize it!
This episode explores the last successful rising of the Parisian Sans-Culottes. From price controls to the Revolutionary Army, the popular movement scores considerable victories!
Episode
1.78 Divided Heights
Clash of the Jacobin Giants! Eager to entrench his leadership of the ultra-radical movement, Hébert goes on the attack. Denouncing Danton and Montagnard moderates, the Hébertists also clash with Robespierre. With power struggles erupting over the Constitution and the Committee of Public Safety, the fracturing of the Mountain had begun!
This episode explores efforts to refresh the Committee of Pub
Joint Episode: Thomas Paine with History on Fire
Explore one of the most unique and controversial Founding Fathers! Together with Historian Daniele Bolelli (History on Fire Podcast), this episode examines the life and impact of Thomas Paine. The conversation covers Paine's influential works, 'Common Sense’, 'Rights of Man’, and ‘The Age of Reason’, and highlights his pivotal role in the American and French revolutions. Despite his popular contri
1.77 The Battle for the Sans-Culottes Part II
Hunger returns to Paris! Plagued by shortages and inflation, the capital's Jacobins battle to maintain control. Amidst the unrest, the Enraged strike back!
This episode explores the continuing power struggles between the Jacobins, the Hébertists, and the Enragés. It also unpacks the shifting policies of these factions as all try to retain the support of the sans-culottes.
Early Access
Don't wait!
1.76 The Battle for the Sans-Culottes Part I
The faction menace returns! The Enraged and the Jacobins battle for supremacy, while the Hébertists rise to challenge both! This episode explore The Manifesto of the Enraged, and the emergence of Jacques Hébert as a revolutionary leader.
Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 77 "The Battle for the Sans-Culottes Part II" now! Available for all True Revolutionaries and abo
1.75 The Death of Marat
Murder in the bathtub! Explore the most famous assassination of the French Revolution! From the motives of Charlotte Corday to the legacy of Jean-Paul Marat, this episode leaves unpacks it all!
Bonus Content
1.75.1 The Cult of Marat
A new Jesus?! Explore the crazy developments of the Cult of Marat!
Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 76 "The Battle for the Sans-Culott
Episode Swap - History Daily
History Daily is another great history podcast that you might enjoy. Every weekday, host Lindsay Graham takes you back in time to explore a momentous event that happened ‘on this day’ in history. Whether it’s to remember the tragedy of December 7th, 1941, the day “that will live in infamy,” or to celebrate that 20th day in July 1969, when mankind reached the moon, History Daily is there to tell yo
Joint Episode: Let The Games Begin
It’s time for the French History Games! I team up with The Age of Napoleon and The Siècle to host a very special sporting event. Get ready for some controversial gold medal winners, and you can nominate your own!
Nominate Your Winners & Feature on the Show!
Keen to share your thoughts? Use the link below to nominate your own winners for the following events:
Corruption, Disappointment, Misfortune
1.74 The Constitution of 1793
An instrument of pacification. Fearful of civil war and another insurrection, the deputies of the National Convention (finally) create a constitution. Despite the fact it was never properly implemented, the Constitution of 1793 continues to shape our politics in the 21st century.
Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 75 "The Death of Marat" now! Available for all True Re
Bonus Episode: Federalist Revolts Questions & Answers
Was evacuating 30,000 civilians from Toulon even possible? What happens to Napoleon after the siege? How did Gironde respond to the purge of their deputies? These questions and more are explored in this fantastic bonus episode available exclusively for members of the Grey History Community!
Listen Here
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Help keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its suppor
1.73 Toulon V: Napoleon's Triumph
A tremendous victory and a terrible cost. Explore the trials and controversies of the siege of Toulon, and Napoleon’s great victory!
Don't miss the Episode Extras!
1.73.1 The Evacuation of Toulon
Thousands try to flee Toulon as the Republic’s armies advance. In the resulting chaos, scenes of misery and panic define the last hours of the siege. Historians paint starkly different pictures of these
Joint Episode: The Art of Revolution
From lions to ghosts, this episode has it all! Host Will Clark and Gavin Whitehead (The Art of Crime Podcast) discuss six noteworthy examples of revolutionary art! You're in for a treat!
Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 73 "Toulon V: Napoleon's Triumph" now! Available for all True Revolutionaries and above!
Artwork
See images of the artwork discussed here!
June 20
1.72 Toulon IV: The Siege of Toulon
Having seized the port of Toulon, how were they going to keep it? That was the question which vexed the First Coalition. Mistakes were plentiful as both sides blundered their response. Amongst the chaos and bloodshed, a young Napoleon Bonaparte plotted his first victory.
Episode Extras
1.72 Unwanted Help
Explore potential allies for Toulon's defence, and examine the complications of Hood's decisi
1.71 Toulon III: Terror or Treason!
As the Federalist Revolts collapsed around them, the citizens of Toulon faced an unenviable choice: the Jacobins or the British. Their decision would shape the Republic, the Empire, and the entire history of Europe!
Early Access
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The Grey History Community
1.70 Toulon II: A Harbour of Discontent
Toulon's history is like no other. Defined by violence and contradictions, the presence of the mighty naval arsenal shaped every aspect of Toulon. This episode explores the town's history, it's struggles, and it's numerous deviations from the norm.
Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 71 "Toulon III: Terror or Treason!" now! Available for all True Revolutionaries and ab
1.69 Toulon I: The Flimsy Coalition and the Second Partition of Poland
Toulon turns to treason. Placing its hopes in the First Coalition, the French rebels found an alliance crippled by mistrust and division. With the allies focused on their own self-interests, the war with France was often a secondary consideration compared to other territorial or commercial gains.
This episode explore the dysfunctions of the First Coalition. Firstly, in unpacks Anglo-Spanish relati
Joint Episode: Young Napoleon And Divided France with The Age of Napoleon
Where was Napoleon prior to the Siege of Toulon? How had the revolution impacted his career and his native home of Corsica? What were Napoleon's experiences of the social schisms which gripped revolutionary France? All of this, and more, is explored in this fantastic episode with the Age of Napoleon podcast.
Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 69 "Toulon: The Flimsy Co
1.68 Marseille: Fight and Flight
“To arms, Frenchmen, to arms!”. As Marseille rallied the country to revolt, the great port city achieved stunning success. Angered by the purging of the Girondins, and driven by its own internal divisions, Marseille marched on Paris to overthrow the Jacobin tyranny.
Yet, despite “liberating” Avignon in July 1793, setbacks soon become insurmountable. Forced into a corner, Marseille and nearby Toulo
1.67 Lyon IV: The Blame Game
With the bloodshed of Lyon's Terror mired in controversy, there's no shortage of grey to explore! Examine what motivated Collot d'Herbois to embrace bloody repression. Learn how the Committee of Public Safety responded to his divisive actions. Who is responsible for the excesses in the city, and why do historians bitterly disagree? These are just some of the ambiguities we'll unpack in this bonus
1.66 Lyon III: Liberated City
Confronted by the purge of the Girondins, the city of Lyon commences insurrection. The rebellion does not go to plan. Despite attempts at a negotiated solution, the city's revolt ends in horrific bloodshed. The Terror in Lyon permanently tarnishes the revolutionary project.
Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 67 "Lyon IV: The Blame Game" now! Available for all True R
1.65 Lyon II: Whose Revolution Is it Anyway?
Insurrection arrives in the city of silk! Although consumed by the same factionalism which devoured the capital, Lyon charts a unique path in 1793. With an unusual twist to familiar developments, the scene was set for one of the most controversial acts of the Reign of Terror.
Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 66 "Lyon: Liberated City" now! Available for all True Revo
1.64 Lyon I: Royalist or Revolutionary?
Famed for being a bastion of reaction, the Republic's second city was anything but. This episode explores Lyon's unique experience of the revolution, unpacking both it's conservative and revolutionary stages. A trailblazer for popular democracy, the history of Lyon is one of contradictions, misnomers, and copious amounts of silk. It's also one civil war and terror...
Early Access
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Joint Episode: American Politics and the French Revolution with My History Can Beat Up Your Politics
How did the French Revolution shape American politics? Why did the French Revolutionaries diverge from the Americans? Did the American Revolution inspire revolutionaries across the Atlantic?
In this fantastic episode with Bruce Carlson of My History Can Beat Up Your Politics, we explore a range of intersections between the French Revolution and American history! If you have questions, send them on
1.63 Caen: The North Rebels!
Normandy and Brittany declare insurrection. Proclaiming their intention to march against the capital, a northern army was assembled to crush the anarchists in Paris. But, despite noteworthy successes, the Federalist Revolt of the North ended in disaster.
Why did the Norman port of Caen become a key federalist stronghold? Did the insurrections pursue a truly federalist program? How did Paris respon
1.62 The Federalist Revolts
Outraged by the coup in the capital, insurrections erupted across the nation. With leading Girondins fleeing to the provinces, civil war was sure to follow. The Federalist Revolts had begun!
This episode explores the national and local causes of the Federalist Revolts, as well as the meaning of federalism in the context of the French Revolution. It also examines key debates regarding the civil war
Members Questions & Answers
Lafayette’s time in prison, opportunities for Louis XVI to escape his fate, debt jubilees in the modern world, and extrajudicial killings! These are just some of the great topics explored in this special bonus episode for the Grey History Community! You can access the full episode by supporting the podcast today!
Full Members-Only Questions & Answers Episode
Listen to the full episode now! Join th
1.61 The Purge of the Girondins Part III
Facing setbacks and defeat, the insurrectionists of Paris recommitted to the cause. Surrounding the Convention with armed force, the deputies of the Convention are compelled to submit. On June 2 1793, the Girondins were purged, and French history was changed forever.
Exclusive Bonus Content (Episode Extras)
1.61 The Brave, Ironic and Chaotic Speech of Lanjuinais
With connections to Louis XVI, the
Joint Episode: Napoleon in Egypt with History of Egypt Podcast
In this spectacular joint episode, Dominic Perry (The History of Egypt Podcast) and I team up to discuss the French Expedition to Egypt in 1798!
We recap the revolutionary events that preceded the expedition, as well as the various motivations behind Napoleon's undertaking. We also explore what Europeans knew of Ancient Egypt before the invasion, as well as the lasting legacy of Napoleon's expedit
1.60 The Purge of the Girondins Part II
Insurrection! With deadlock paralysing the Convention, and the Commission of Twelve provoking the radicals of Paris, another journée consumed the capital. With the establishment of the Central Revolutionary Committee and the Évêché Assembly, the sections of Paris led a new uprising against the national representation. The Insurrection of 31 May 1793 consumed the French Revolution, but it didn't ha
T-Shirt Giveaway November 2023
To celebrate Ridley Scott's new Napoleon film, I'm giving away 15 Grey History T-Shirts! 10 shirts will be randomly won by members of the Grey History Community. Another 5 will be randomly won by subscribers to the Grey History Newsletter. All Champions of the People and Heroes of the Revolution can also claim a shirt.
To enter, subscribe to the Grey History Newsletter (and get a free bonus episod
1.59 The Purge of the Girondins Part I
With the revolution paralysed by factional feuds, the people of Paris moved to break the deadlock. This episode explores the weeks immediately preceding the Purge of the Girondins, including how Brissot and his allies rallied support across the country. It also examines the differing opinions of historians in relation to the actions of the Girondins in early 1793. With foreign plots and rumblings
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