The Age of Napoleon Podcast
The Age of Napoleon is a history podcast about the life and career of Napoleon Bonaparte as well as the general context of Europe between the early eighteenth and early nineteenth century. It is about big trends and the grand sweep of history, as well as the smaller, individual stories that bring them to life.
Tue, April 01, 2025
My Blood for the Emperor
In the summer of 1809, Napoleon crossed the Danube again to confront Archduke Charles and the Habsburg field army and avenge his defeat at Aspern-Essling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, March 01, 2025
Heroes and Rebels
As the War of the Fifth Coalition raged on, anti-French rebels rose up in the Alps and a remarkable Royal Navy captain fought one of the era's strangest battles on the Atlantic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, February 01, 2025
The Emperor Alone
Austria, 1809: Napoleon was stunned after the first defeat of his career at Aspern-Essling and the death of his best friend and closest confidant, Marshal Lannes. But all across the continent, the war raged on... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, January 01, 2025
The Red Danube
On May 21st, 1809, the Austrians attacked the Grande Armée at the towns of Aspern and Essling. The ensuing two days were the hardest test of Napoleon's career to date. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, December 01, 2024
More Terrible than Ever
In April, 1809, the Austrians finally launched their long-awaited invasion of the Napoleonic Empire. The French were taken by surprise, but Napoleon had a plan to turn the tables. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 01, 2024
Setting the World Aflame
French and British forces continue fighting in Spain. In Paris, Napoleon's frustrations with Talleyrand finally boil over as he prepares to face off against a renewed and reformed Habsburg army. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, October 01, 2024
The Hornets' Nest
After taking Madrid, Napoleon chased a British army into northwestern Spain. Meanwhile, behind the lines, Spanish guerrillas waged a brutal war against the occupiers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, September 01, 2024
Impossible
The Spanish Patriots prepared to hold off Bonaparte in a rocky mountain pass, but they didn't count on the heroism of the Polish cavalry of Napoleon's Imperial Guard. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 09, 2024
Paris Games Special
I sat down with two fellow French history podcasters for a Paris Games-themed discussion of some of our favorite characters of 18th and 19th century French history. You can find Will's show, Grey History, at: https://greyhistory.com, and David's show, The Siècle, here: http://thesiecle.com/. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 01, 2024
Strike Hard
In early November 1808, French troops crossed the Ebro River in their second invasion of Spain, led by the Emperor himself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, June 30, 2024
War to the Knife
The summer of 1808 saw desperate fighting across Iberia as Spanish and Portuguese patriots rose up against Napoleon. France's most powerful enemy, Great Britain, sought to take advantage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, June 01, 2024
The Limits of Power
The Spanish uprising was a disaster for France. Napoleon tried to shore up his diplomatic situation but found himself undermined by a surprising new enemy. Cameo appearances by José de San Martín and Johann Wolfgang von Goethe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 01, 2024
Victory or Death
In the spring of 1808, Napoleon said he considered Spain conquered. That summer, Spanish forces dealt France its first major battlefield defeat in nearly a decade. How did Spain manage this stunning reversal? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 16, 2024
Grey History Collaboration
I recently recorded a collaboration with Will Clark of Grey History: the French Revolution. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, April 01, 2024
The Way of the Bandit
In the Spring of 1808, Napoleon installed his brother Joseph on the Spanish throne. However, the people of Madrid had had enough of the French, and took matters into their own hands. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 01, 2024
Bad Omens
With Portugal conquered, Napoleon turned his attention to Spain. As French troops began occupying the country, it soon became clear they were sitting on a political powder keg. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 01, 2024
Barbarians
1807 saw Napoleon and the British jockeying for influence among the remaining neutral states of Europe. Average people paid the price for this competition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, January 01, 2024
The Rise of the Sausage-Maker
In 1808, France would find itself in a new war on the Iberian Peninsula. How did Napoleon find himself engaged in a new war less than a year after the Treaty of Tilsit? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 01, 2023
Europe Under the Eagle
By 1808, the Napoleonic empire stretched from Poland to the Pyrenees, and from the North Sea to the southern tip of Italy. How was Europe adjusting to Napoleon's new order? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 01, 2023
The Will of the Emperor
By 1809, Napoleon had ruled France for a decade. How did the Napoleonic regime actually function? How could one person effectively exercise his will over half a continent? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, September 30, 2023
The Art of Power
In Europe at the dawn of the nineteenth century, art and politics were deeply intertwined, sometimes in surprising ways. No one understood this better than Napoleon Bonaparte. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, September 01, 2023
The Imperial City
During his 15 years in power, Napoleon put an indelible mark on his adopted city: Paris. The First Empire was a formative period in the history of the city, but what did it mean for average people? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 01, 2023
Man of the Century
Napoleon's new treaty with Russia had totally transformed European geopolitics. What did it mean for the future of the continent? For France? For Napoleon himself? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, July 01, 2023
The Two Eagles
In the summer of 1807, the emperors of France and Russia, and the King and Queen of Prussia met at the Baltic town of Tilsit for a remarkable diplomatic summit aimed at forging a new geopolitical status quo for Europe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 01, 2023
Bennigsen's Gamble
In the summer of 1807, Napoleon was on the verge of seizing a prize that had eluded him for 6 months: Königsberg. The end of the war was in sight, but before he could take the city, he would have to deal with a bold surprise attack on his rear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, May 01, 2023
Beyond Bravery
As Napoleon struggled to rebuild his army after Eylau, French forces lay siege to the port city of Danzig. In late Spring, the Grande Armée went back out on campaign, to square off against General Bennigsen once again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, April 01, 2023
What a Massacre
The Battle of Eylau was the greatest challenge of Napoleon's career so far. For two days, the French and Russian armies fought with unbelievable tenacity in the worst conditions imaginable. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 01, 2023
The Soul of a Free Man
A recording of a recent talk I gave on the life of Toussaint Louverture You can find out more about the Symposium at: https://www.historysymposium.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, February 01, 2023
Dangers of Every Kind
In January of 1807, Napoleon ordered his men to make winter quarters and turned his attention to an exciting, but dangerous new mistress with a hidden agenda. But before the month was over, fate would draw the Grande Armée back out on campaign. Also, I am writing Dr. Alexander Mikaberidze's name here in the notes, in case some of you are wondering how to spell it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, January 01, 2023
Eagles East
France and the Grande Armée were growing tired of war, but in the winter of 1806, Napoleon led his forces east, into a harsh, new environment that would test the limits of his soldiers' endurance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, December 01, 2022
The Rights of War
As Napoleon and the Grande Armée enjoyed a pleasant interlude in occupied Berlin, the war was escalating in unprecedented ways. Sailors, smugglers, and corsairs all over the world were engaged in a new style of total economic warfare. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 01, 2022
Our Favorite Enemy
After their defeats at Jena and Auerstedt, the vaunted Prussian army collapsed in the face of Napoleon's onslaught. As the French pushed into the heart of Central Europe, their presence began to awaken complicated nationalist feelings on both sides. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, October 01, 2022
The Iron Marshal's Stand
Germany, 1806: while Napoleon was winning another triumph at the Battle of Jena, the Third Corps of his army was forced to fight alone in a desperate battle against a superior force. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 06, 2022
History on Horseback
In early October, 1806, Napoleon led the Grande Armée to war once again, this time against the Prussians. The events of the next week would change the course of history, and have a surprisingly profound impact on western philosophy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 01, 2022
A Ridiculous War
In 1806, France and Prussia went to war. The Grande Armée was at the height of its powers, but the French did not want this fight. The Prussian army had huge problems, but was eager to prove itself against Napoleon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, July 09, 2022
Dispatch #1
Introducing a new feature to the show. Visit: www.patreon.com/ageofnapoleon and sign up if you'd like to join us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, July 01, 2022
Fear and Expectation
1806 saw Europe reeling from the aftermath of Austerlitz. Napoleon organized his new empire and continued to remake the map of the continent, but he would soon be faced with a powerful backlash. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, June 01, 2022
The Cavalry
An overview of the most colorful and romanticized branch of a Napoleonic military: the cavalry. Depending on your perspective, they were either the bravest, most vital part of any army, or preening, arrogant prima donnas. Napoleonic cavalry regiments saw some of the most desperate and exciting combat of the era, and their unique subculture continues to fascinate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, April 30, 2022
The New Order
After his stunning victories of late 1805, Napoleon sought to impose a new international order on central Europe. This would mean an all-out diplomatic assault on one of the world's oldest and most venerable institutions: the Holy Roman Empire. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 31, 2022
Immortal Nelson
Horatio Nelson's last battle was a stunning British victory, but his fleet's troubles were just beginning. We examine the stunning aftermath of Trafalgar and the legacy of the greatest admiral of the age. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, March 14, 2022
Eastward with Jesse Alexander
I interviewed Real Time History's Jesse Alexander about his latest project: tracing Napoleon's downfall from the invasion of Russia in 1812. You can find them on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/c/realtimehistory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, March 01, 2022
Thank God I Have Done My Duty
In October 1805, a Franco-Spanish fleet sailed out of Cadiz to seek a confrontation with a British fleet under Horatio Nelson. What ensued was one of the greatest naval battles of all time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, February 01, 2022
Six Hours
Napoleon famously said that if he could control the English Channel for 6 hours, he would control the world. In 1805, the French navy launched an audacious plan to buy the Emperor his 6 hours. But to do so, they would have to best one of the greatest military institutions of all time: the 19th century Royal Navy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 31, 2021
In the Hands of a Giant
The Battle of Austerlitz changed Europe forever. As news of his triumph reverberated across Europe, Napoleon began to redraw the map of the continent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, December 01, 2021
The Battle of the Three Emperors
On the first anniversary of his coronation, Napoleon faced off against a powerful Coalition army. With France's strategic situation deteriorating by the hour, he formed an audacious plan to win the war in a single stroke. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, October 31, 2021
The Chase
Napoleon pursues a Coalition army through Austria. Masséna fights in Italy. Prussian neutrality finally ends. https://www.patreon.com/ageofnapoleon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 30, 2021
The Fortunes of War
A new coalition forms against France. Napoleon leads his new army into Germany in a stunning, lightning campaign. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, August 31, 2021
The Eagles of Boulogne
Napoleon brings his army to the Channel Coast and builds it into one of the most formidable war machines in military history. Meanwhile, talk of another anti-French Coalition begins to swirl in the old regime capitals of Europe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, July 25, 2021
The Crown of Charlemagne
On December 2nd, 1804, Napoleon crowned himself Emperor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, June 10, 2021
The Eagle's Landing
We examine Napoleon's colonial policies, the tragic end of Toussaint Louverture, and the final act of the Haitian War of Independence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 23, 2021
Free Haiti
After his victory over Britain, Toussaint Louverture began a new struggle: to build a new country out of the ruins of war and rebellion. Louverture had a bright vision for the future, but old divisions still lurked under the surface... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 01, 2021
The Symposium
A recording of a panel on Napoleonic podcasting from the 2021 Massena Society symposium on Napoleonic History. The Massena Society's YouTube channel can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYvrcTkLRWH_5wOdr4lhKHw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 03, 2021
The Black Napoleon
As the war in Haiti rages on, Toussaint Louverture makes a fateful decision to leave his allies behind. We follow his development as a general as he forges his guerilla forces into a powerful, modern army, and challenges the invaders head-on. Registration for the conference: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/napoleon-and-his-legacy-warfare-politics-and-society-march-18-21-2021-tickets-142425537617 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, January 31, 2021
The Opening
As Haiti sinks deeper into chaos and tragedy, Toussaint begins his rise to leadership within the rebel movement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, December 23, 2020
The Age of Toussaint
Haiti was France's richest colony, but Europe's lust for sugar had created a barbaric and unstable social system in the colonies. We meet the man who would one day rise above this barbarism and become father of a new country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, October 11, 2020
The Blood of a King
In 1803, Britain sent a team of assassins against Napoleon. They failed, but the plot led to one of the most controversial episodes of Napoleon's career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, August 23, 2020
The Experiment
With the war over, France was finally becoming prosperous again. Napoleon contemplated what this would mean for his regime as he worked to reform the country. In many ways, the Consulate was a golden age, but war with Britain was already looming on the horizon once again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 29, 2020
The Spoiled Child of Victory
France welcomes the Catholic Church back to the country in grand style, but the Concordat complicated Napoleon's relationship with staunch republicans in the army leadership. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, July 08, 2020
Concord
Napoleon finally had his deal with the Vatican, but how would the Concordat of 1801 change France? What would it mean for the future of the revolution, and millions of alienated French Catholics? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, June 15, 2020
God Save the Republic
Napoleon continues in his attempt to reconcile with conservatives. He finally manages to bring the Vatican to the negotiating table for an historic agreement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, May 26, 2020
The Eagle and the Owls
Napoleon wanted to bring social harmony to France, but to do that, he needed to resolve the bitter conflict between the Catholic Church and the revolution. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, May 06, 2020
Resistance is Pointless
A conclusion to our discussion of the Napoleonic Code, plus the fate of France's crown jewels, the legal opposition to Bonaparte's regime, and women's rights. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, April 13, 2020
Master of France
Bonaparte finally takes the last legal step towards dictatorship, and we begin a discussion of his most important legacy: the Napoleonic Code. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, March 21, 2020
The Blank Slate
The Treaty of Amiens is greeted with celebrations around the world. With peace, Napoleon prepares to embark on an ambitious program of reform. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 27, 2020
The Last Treaty
After 8 years of war, Britain and France were finally on the road to peace, but reaching an agreement between such bitter rivals would be a long, arduous process. Fortunately, for both countries, an unlikely friendship between Joseph Bonaparte and Lord Charles Cornwallis paved the way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, February 05, 2020
Definitive Peace
After their defeat at Hohenlinden, the Austrians return to the negotiating table, resulting in a treaty that threw the entire future of the Holy Roman Empire into doubt. We examine Prussian diplomacy, and their ineffective young King's strange relationship with Napoleon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 17, 2020
The World Stage
The War of the 2nd Coalition is winding down, but in the cut-throat world of Napoleonic diplomacy, peace could often prove elusive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, December 04, 2019
Triumph and Temptation
Horatio Nelson continues to build his reputation as one of the most brilliant sailors of the age, but as his fame grows, the dark side of Nelson's character threatens to undermine his achievements. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 08, 2019
Do Much or Be Ruined
With the outbreak of war, Nelson vows to either make his career or destroy himself in the effort. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, October 19, 2019
That Great Little Man
We examine the early career of Horatio Nelson, one of Napoleon's ablest and most implacable opponents. Nelson had good connections and showed great promise, but his temperament endangered his career almost as soon as it began. Visit: https://www.patreon.com/ageofnapoleon to sign up for the ad-free version. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, September 28, 2019
Stalemate
Austria drops out of the war, leaving Britain to continue the struggle against France alone. Emperor Paul of Russia faces fierce opposition. The British navy gets itself into trouble in the Baltic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, September 10, 2019
The Infernal Machine
After Marengo, Napoleon's secret police did battle with violent radicals in the political underground, culminating in a brush with death on Christmas Eve, 1800. For the ad-free version of the show, visit: https://www.patreon.com/ageofnapoleon and pledge at least $2/month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, August 26, 2019
The Fruits of Victory
Does the Battle of Marengo deserve its reputation as one of Napoleon's greatest victories? We analyze the battle and examine its chaotic aftermath. If you'd like to listen to the show ad-free, visit: https://www.patreon.com/ageofnapoleon and pledge at least $2/month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, August 08, 2019
The Promise
Napoleon marches against the Austrians yet again, with the future of his new regime hanging in the balance. What followed was one of the most dramatic and consequential campaigns of the Napoleonic Wars, culminating in the first great battle of the 19th century: Marengo. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, July 23, 2019
The New Covenant
Napoleon outmaneuvers his rivals and forms a new government, then secures his position as dictator of France with an undemocratic referendum. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, July 07, 2019
Marx and the Coup with Matt Christman
Writer and political commentator Matt Christman returns for a conversation about the significance of the Coup of 18 Brumaire. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, June 23, 2019
The Morning After
We examine the aftermath and significance of the Coup of 18 Brumaire. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, June 07, 2019
The Sword of Brumaire
Napoleon makes a triumphant return to France, but finds the country no longer has any dire need of a military savior. Nonetheless, a plot was already underway in Paris that would soon culminate in Napoleon's seizure of power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, May 21, 2019
Egypt Epilogue with Derek Davison
Derek Davison returns to discuss Middle Eastern history in the wake of the French Expedition. Topics include: the remarkable reign of Muhammad Ali, army reform, orientalism, and a possible 20th-century equivalent of Napoleon You can hear more from Derek at: https://fx.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, May 10, 2019
Meanwhile, in Europe
While Napoleon is away in Egypt, the revolution faces new struggles in Europe. Another coalition goes to war with France. One of history's greatest commanders faces off against the republic in Italy. Back in Paris, the government struggles to contain the resurgent left, and a jaded former idealist makes a surprising political comeback. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, April 23, 2019
Leaving Egypt
Murat's cavalry secure another crushing victory over the Mamelukes, but news from France leads Napoleon to abandon the expedition (and his mistress), leaving General Kléber to pick up the pieces. We follow the expedition to its ignoble end, and examine what conclusions we can draw from this strange chapter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 05, 2019
A Spectacle of Death
With the dream of an eastern empire collapsing, Bonaparte launches an invasion of Syria against enormous odds, leading to some of the darkest episodes of his early career. We meet Pauline Fourès, a young French woman who came to be nicknamed "Cleopatra." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 21, 2019
The End of Illusion
The expedition's bad luck continues. The people of Egypt finally reach their breaking point. Cairo gets a taste of Napoleon's tyrannical side. Bonaparte receives a disturbing revelation about his personal life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, March 06, 2019
In Debt with Zachary Stoltzfus
A conversation about debt and property in revolutionary and Napoleonic France, and what's it's like to research late 18th and early 19th century French history Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, February 16, 2019
Ali Bonaparte
Relations between France and other great powers deteriorate. The Army of the Orient occupies Cairo, and the French immediately run into difficulties governing. Napoleon makes a major decision that could have huge ramifications for the expedition, and for his own destiny. Minor correction: during the fourth minute, "dawn of the 18th century" should be "dawn of the 19th century." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, January 29, 2019
Brave Despair
The British Mediterranean Fleet under Horatio Nelson spends months chasing the naval component of the Egypt Expedition. They finally catch the French at Aboukir Bay and fight the decisive Battle of the Nile, which would have major consequences for Napoleon and his army, and reverberate in geopolitics and culture for decades. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, January 26, 2019
The Scorched Plains
The Army of the Orient pushes deeper into Egypt and learns painful lessons about life and death in the desert. Napoleon clamps down on discontent and rallies the army to win a skirmish at Shubra Khit and a major engagement at the so-called "Battle of the Pyramids," clearing the way to Cairo. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, January 09, 2019
To the Land of the Gods
The Army of the Orient sets sail. They make a brief stop in Malta, where Napoleon clashes with an ancient organization of religious pirates. The French landing in Egypt turns into a debacle. Bonaparte seizes Alexandria in a messy, but one-sided battle and introduces himself to the people of Egypt. We meet the Mameluke warlords who rule the country, and examine Napoleon's approach to usurping their authority. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 21, 2018
Davison Pasha
An interview with the writer and historian Derek Davison, who helps us look past the myths and orientalist fantasies to see the Middle East as it actually was on the eve of Napoleon's arrival. Topics include: the unique and dysfunctional regime of the Mamelukes, religion, Ottoman decline, and the 18th-century Middle Eastern way of war. You can find Derek's foreign policy writing for LobeLog at: https://lobelog.com/author/derek-davison/ His commentaries on Ibn Battuta are here: https://therihlah.com/ And his international affairs/history site is here: https://attwiw.com/ He is also on Twitter as @ dwdavison9318 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 07, 2018
East and West
Napoleon cajoles the Austrians into signing a peace treaty... a treaty which practically guarantees another war in the future. He begins planning the expedition to Egypt, and we examine the rationales behind the campaign. A promising young republican general meets a tragic fate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, November 20, 2018
The Kansas Campaign
A special interview with military historians Dr. Mark Gerges, Dr. Jonathan Abel, and Dr. John Kuehn, experts on the Napoleonic era from the US Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, November 07, 2018
Breaking the Pendulum
While Napoleon fought in Italy, French politics oscillated dangerously between left and right. Finally, a fraught election and divisions within the Directory tore the system apart. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, October 19, 2018
Questions and Answers
We take a break from the narrative to answer listener questions on topics ranging from the organization of the revolutionary armies to pop culture to alternate history hypotheticals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, September 27, 2018
King of Italy
Bonaparte returns to Italy after Leoben, and is already coming into his own as a political figure. He is reunited with Josephine, and enjoys an opulent court life at Mombello. We trace Napoleon's development as a statesman as he defies the Directory and brings Venice and Genoa under French influence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 12, 2018
The Road to Leoben
The First Italian Campaign reaches its less-than-dramatic conclusion with Napoleon's invasion of Austria. We take a look back on this remarkable period, and assess Napoleon as a strategist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, August 24, 2018
The Final Effort
With the Mantua garrison on the brink of starvation, the Austrians under Alvinczy launch one last relief attempt. General Sérurier returns, and General Joubert is given command of a division. Napoleon fights another innovative battle at Rivoli, where the French cavalry devastates the enemy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, August 11, 2018
The Fate of Italy
Napoleon faces a new opponent, who gives the Army of Italy their toughest fight of the campaign so far. He suffers his first defeats as commander-in-chief. We examine an iconic moment of Napoleon's career: the assault on the bridge at Arcole. Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/ageofnapoleon https://ko-fi.com/theageofnapoleonpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, July 30, 2018
The Walls of Mantua
The Army of Italy pushes north to support a French offensive in Germany, but finds Wurmser already back on the march, leading to a major battle at Bassano and a frantic race down from the Alps. Conditions within Mantua worsen. We meet a young, capable Austrian commander: Archduke Charles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, July 15, 2018
Risk and Reward
The Army of Italy faces off against Field Marshal Wurmser, and finds itself in its toughest fight of the campaign so far. Bonaparte takes some calculated risks to even the odds. One of Napoleon's inner circle suffers a tragic, life-altering wound. Mantua stands as strong, but warfare is changing, and fortresses like Mantua are less relevant than ever. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, July 03, 2018
To the Victor Go the Spoils
The Army of Italy beats Beaulieu one last time, then takes a lucrative detour south and confronts the Pope. Napoleon and Josephine are finally reunited. We also meet Napoleon's next opponent, discuss corruption within the army, and take an in-depth look at the campaign to strip Italy of its cultural and intellectual wealth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, June 19, 2018
The Liberation of Lombardy
Napoleon finally enters Milan. The French conquest has divided Lombardy-- radicals are eager to follow the example of the revolution, but many others greet their conquerors with hostility and suspicion. Napoleon continues his requisitions and demands for tribute, angering an old friend as well as the locals. The officers of the still-ragged Army of Italy invest in jewel-encrusted watches. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, June 04, 2018
The Legend of Lodi
The First Italian Campaign continues. Napoleon outfoxes the Austrians and takes Milan. The Army of Italy fights a famous battle at Lodi, which probably does not deserve its legendary reputation. We also take a look at Napoleon's propaganda machine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 17, 2018
The Promised Land
We meet some of the leaders of the Army of Italy. The First Italian Campaign begins in dramatic fashion, with two weeks of lightning battles at Montenotte, Millesimo, Dego, Ceva, and Mondovì. Napoleon negotiates with Piedmont, and worries about looting, and about his wife. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 27, 2018
Naked and Underfed
We meet the Army of Italy, which Napoleon finds in a "state of destitution." Paris provides little support, but Bonaparte attempts to get his command into shape for the offensive. We discuss more of the military reforms of the revolution. Napoleon gives the first famous speech of his career. The First Italian Campaign gets off to an inauspicious start. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, April 12, 2018
To Destiny
For better and for worse, a new government takes over in Paris: the Directory. Napoleon and Josephine are married, and we examine her unhappy early life. Napoleon leaves Paris to meet his destiny. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, March 25, 2018
Momentum
An update from the armies at the front: French success continues in the Netherlands, and the long-suffering Dutch radicals finally have their day. In the South, the republicans push into Catalonia, knocking Spain out of the war, but at the cost of a general's life. Prussia finally wakes up and leaves the Coalition. In Paris, Napoleon's meteoric rise has officially begun. He shares the fruits of his success and continues his inept search for a wife. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, March 08, 2018
The Man of Bronze
With the defeat of the French left, the right begins a violent resurgence, culminating in a rebellion that nearly conquers Paris. Napoleon saves the Convention (and his career with it). We meet two memorable characters: Paul Barras and Joachim Murat Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, February 23, 2018
Down and Out in Paris
With so many of his political patrons dead, Napoleon's career stalls. He spends some aimless months in the capital trying to improve his situation. He finds high society transformed along with politics. Also discussed: Napoleon's love life, republican victories in the Vendée, and the surprising importance of the Army Topographical Bureau. Contains some (very tame) sexual content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, February 01, 2018
Thermidor
An eclectic episode. Napoleon gets out of jail, fights another battle in northern Italy, and comes tantalizingly close to a triumphant return to Corsica. Other topics include: the fall of Robespierre, the Kościuszko Uprising, Thermidorian politics, the progress of the war, and the Jacobin Air Force Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 19, 2018
Episode Nineteen: The Principles of Mountain Warfare
Napoleon reports for duty with the Army of Italy, which is fighting a tough campaign in the rugged Alps. André Masséna is introduced. Napoleon's plan and Masséna's daring win a victory at Saorgio. Napoleon undertakes an ill-timed mission to Genoa. Map of the Saorgio campaign: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Saorgio#/media/File:Saorgio_1794_Campaign_Map.jpg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, January 05, 2018
Vindication
Napoleon takes charge as head of artillery for the Army of the Alps, clashes with his incompetent commanders, and finally wins recognition on the battlefield during the Siege of Toulon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, December 16, 2017
A Nation in Arms
Napoleon finally reports to the regular army, just as France sinks deeper into chaos. The Jacobins come to power and launch The Reign of Terror. The army continues to transform. Napoleon finally achieves some success writing, and wins some powerful friends in the process. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, December 01, 2017
Into the Storm
SURVEY: https://survey.libsyn.com/ageofnapoleon Napoleon returns to Corsica. The former king is executed; royalists rise up to avenge him. Napoleon fights in his first (real) battle. Paoli breaks with the Bonapartes and with France. Napoleon and his family flee Corsica. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, November 23, 2017
The Mob
Napoleon bungles his first test as a National Guard officer and bears witness to the revolution's darkest days survey: survey.libsyn.com/ageofnapoleon Patreon: patreon.com/ageofnapoleon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, November 10, 2017
A Guide to the Infantry of the Napoleonic Era
A short episode delving into the organization, equipment, and uniforms of Napoleonic foot-soldiers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, October 28, 2017
The People's Army
Back on the mainland, 1792 saw the revolution face an existential crisis, which gave birth to a new new kind of army. Topics include Count Guibert and his theory of the citizen-soldier, the Battle of Valmy, and the foundation of the First Republic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, October 22, 2017
The Corsican Gracchi
The Bonaparte brothers launch their political careers with very mixed success, Paoli returns from exile a changed man, and we take a close look at the crooked, violent world of eighteenth century Corsican electoral campaigning. Also: Joseph Bonaparte birtherism Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, October 12, 2017
Long Live the Fatherland
Napoleon is bored in a peacetime army and fills his time with writing and the study of military theory. He returns to Corsica for the first time since childhood. The revolution turns his political beliefs upside down. Also discussed: rich Uncle Luciano and artisanal, small-batch artillery Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, September 27, 2017
Cadet Paille-au-nez
Napoleon grows up: surviving military school, coping with the death of his father, and becoming an officer in record time. Also discussed: Bourrienne's problematic 'Memoirs,' Napoleon's love of books, talking to girls, and how the Bonapartes were like the Bluths Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, September 17, 2017
As the Fatherland Was Dying
the life and death of Carlo Bonaparte, Napoleon's childhood, Napoleon leaves home Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 30, 2017
The Iron Soil of Corsica
Napoleon's roots. Topics include: vendettas, the Corsican War of Independence, Napoleon's hero- Pasquale Paoli, and James Boswell's Corsica cosplay Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bonus · Thu, August 17, 2017
Robespierre
Topics include: the life and career of Maximilien Robespierre and The Terror Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, August 02, 2017
Bonus Episode
Bonus Episode by The Age of Napoleon Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, July 17, 2017
Bonus Episode: The 28th Messidor of Matt Christman
A discussion on Karl Marx's '18 Brumaire of Louis Bonaparte' with podcaster, writer, and Marx enthusiast Matt Christman. Topics include Napoleon III's rise to power and why you are a potato in a sack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, July 04, 2017
Episode Eight: Fracture
French society begins to fracture as the Revolution goes off the rails. Topics include the first Bastille Day, the Catholic counter-revolution, the émigrés, the rise of radicalism, and revolutionary violence Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, June 13, 2017
Episode Seven: The Undesired
The road to the French Revolution. The Bastille, the Tennis Court Oath, the Women's March on Versailles, the Great Fear, and Lafayette (yes, that Lafayette) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, May 30, 2017
Episode Six: The King's Army
Topics include: military life in the 18th century, officer culture, battles, desertion, and the life story and real adventures of the poor man of Toggenburg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, May 25, 2017
Episode 5.5: The Doomed Regime
Rounding out the discussion of 18th century France from episode 5. Topics include politics, the economy, diplomacy, and workin' for the King of Prussia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sun, May 21, 2017
Episode Five: The Setting Sun
topics include Louis XIV and his disastrous successors, the people and society of 18th century France, and a dog who became a saint (kind of) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, May 06, 2017
Episode Four: Nemesis
Great Britain in the Eighteenth century. Politics, society, and the industrialization (or lack thereof) of the British economy special cameo by Hank the cat Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, April 29, 2017
Episode Three: Eastern Ambitions
Topics include: the Habsburgs, the Holy Roman Empire, Prussia, the wars of Frederick the Great, Poland, Russia, Sweden, and the Ottoman Empire Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, April 22, 2017
Episode 2.5: The Advances of Dr. Struensee
Bonus mini-episode with a show announcement and a good story about Denmark Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, April 14, 2017
Episode Two: Enlightenment and Tyranny
Topics include: The Enlightenment, absolute monarchy, Portugal, Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fri, March 31, 2017
Episode One: The Basics
Episode one of a history podcast about the Napoleonic Era Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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