Generals and Napoleon
Subscribed: 121Played: 4,546
Subscribe
© John W. Viscardo
Description
Generals and Napoleon, presented by John Viscardo, a history podcast exploring the Napoleonic Wars, iconic commanders, battlefield strategy, and leadership lessons.
Instagram: @andnapoleon
X/Twitter: @andnapoleon
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@generalsandnapoleon
Patreon: patreon.com/generalsandnapoleon
TikTok: tiktok.com/@andnapoleon
Instagram: @andnapoleon
X/Twitter: @andnapoleon
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@generalsandnapoleon
Patreon: patreon.com/generalsandnapoleon
TikTok: tiktok.com/@andnapoleon
145 Episodes
Reverse
🎖️ 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 our fantastic panel of guests - Marcus Cribb, Graeme Callister, Josh Provan, and Charles Mackay - who discuss everything from Kellerman's stalwart victory at Valmy to Wellington’s defensive genius at Waterloo. We break down the tactics, triumphs, and legacies of battles involving from France, Britain, Russia, Austria, Prussia, and beyond.🔍 Whether you're a history buff, military strategist, or Napoleon enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights, surprises, and debates on what made these battles legendary.💬 Tell us in the comments: Which ones would make YOUR Top 15 list?🎧 Subscribe for more on the Napoleonic Era, epic battles, leadership lessons, and the fascinating lives of history’s greatest military eraX/Twitter: @graemecallister, @mcribbhistory, @LandOfHistory, @andnapoleonBluesky: @bubblesvampire.bsky.social
🌍 From an unknown Corsican artillery lieutenant to Emperor of the French — 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 breakthrough at Toulon and rise to generalHow he became a national heroThe 1799 coup that made him First Consul📖 Perfect for history buffs, students, and anyone fascinated by leadership, ambition, and the Napoleonic era.🔔 Subscribe for more Napoleonic history, great battles, and “on this date” events from the life of Napoleon and his marshals!X/Twitter: @andnapoleon#Napoleon #History #NapoleonicWars #FrenchRevolution #RiseOfNapoleon
🔴 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 stand at Quatre-Bras helped shape the epic showdown to come.👑 Featuring key figures like Marshal Ney, General D'Erlon, and Field Marshal Blücher we examine the strategies, blunders, and heroism that unfolded over one fateful day in Belgium.⚔️ Learn how coordination failures, fog of war, and bold decision-making altered the course of European history in just 24 hours.🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more Napoleonic history every week!#Napoleon #BattleOfLigny #QuatreBras #NapoleonicWars #Wellington #Waterloo #MilitaryHistory #HistoryPodcast #PrussianArmy #MarshalNey
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 agreed to bring Napoleon home, how French citizens responded, and what the funeral meant for Napoleon's legacy in French history.🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow more Napoleonic history!👇 Comment below: Should Napoleon have been buried in France or left on Saint Helena?Bluesky: @andnapoleon.bsky.social, @bubblesvampire.bsky.social
1🇫🇷👑 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 David Montgomery joins the show to discuss his reign, which was marked by attempts to roll back the French Revolution.Deeply conservative, Charles X pushed policies favoring the Catholic Church and the old aristocracy—earning him fierce opposition from liberals and the middle class. His controversial July Ordinances of 1830, which dissolved Parliament, censored the press, and restricted voting rights, triggered the July Revolution. Charles was overthrown and forced to abdicate, ending Bourbon rule in France.📜 In this video, we’ll explore:Charles X’s rise to power His political struggles during the RestorationHow his policies sparked the 1830 RevolutionThe legacy of the last Bourbon king of France🔔 Subscribe for more history on French kings, Napoleon, and the dramatic revolutions that shaped Europe!X/Twitter: @TheSiecle, @andnapoleon
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 electrified Europe, shattered the myth of French invincibility, and inspired resistance against Napoleon across the continent.⚔️ Learn about:How Spanish forces outmaneuvered Napoleon’s troopsThe leadership of General CastañosThe surrender of General DupontWhy Bailén changed the course of the Peninsular War
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 explore the remarkable journey of a man who wore many hats:✅ His cavalry commands in the Peninsular War and Russian Campaign✅ Service under Murat and participation in key engagements like Talavera and Borodino✅ His diplomatic missions to Constantinople and role in shaping French-Ottoman policy✅ How he navigated the fall of Napoleon, the Bourbon Restoration, and the July 1830 Revolution✅ Why Sébastiani remains one of the most adaptable figures of the eraWhether on horseback or in the halls of power, Sébastiani was always at the center of history.📌 Like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into the overlooked generals of the Napoleonic Wars!X/Twitter: @andnapoleon
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 - Rachael Stark, Graeme Callister, Nick Kramer, Michael Hamel, and Jonas de Neef - who discuss everything from Marshal Davout’s iron discipline to Wellington’s defensive genius. We break down the tactics, triumphs, and legacies of iconic leaders from France, Britain, Russia, Austria, Prussia, and beyond.🔍 Whether you're a history buff, military strategist, or Napoleon enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights, surprises, and debates on what made these men legendary.👉 We Include:Forgotten geniuses and battlefield legendsKey campaigns that defined each generalHow Napoleon influenced—and was influenced by—his marshals and enemies💬 Tell us in the comments: Who would make YOUR Top 15 list?🎧 Subscribe for more on the Napoleonic Wars, epic battles, leadership lessons, and the fascinating lives of history’s greatest generals.*Note: "The opinions expressed herein are those of the individuals and do reflect the official policy or position of the US Army, the United States Military Academy, the Department of Defense, or the US Government.”X/Twitter: @bookish_rachael, @nkramer5812, @graemecallister, @andnapoleon #Napoleon #NapoleonicWars #MilitaryHistory #Wellington #Davout #NapoleonicGenerals #HistoryPodcast #GeneralsAndNapoleon
🎖️ 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 Kramer, Michael Hamel, and Jonas de Neef - who discuss everything from Marshal Davout’s iron discipline to Wellington’s defensive genius. We break down the tactics, triumphs, and legacies of iconic leaders from France, Britain, Russia, Austria, Prussia, and beyond.🔍 Whether you're a history buff, military strategist, or Napoleon enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights, surprises, and debates on what made these men legendary.👉 We Include:Forgotten geniuses and battlefield legendsKey campaigns that defined each generalHow Napoleon influenced—and was influenced by—his marshals and enemies💬 Tell us in the comments: Who would make YOUR Top 15 list?🎧 Subscribe for more on the Napoleonic Wars, epic battles, leadership lessons, and the fascinating lives of history’s greatest generals.*Note: "The opinions expressed herein are those of the individuals and do reflect the official policy or position of the US Army, the United States Military Academy, the Department of Defense, or the US Government.”X/Twitter: @bookish_rachael, @nkramer5812, @graemecallister, @andnapoleon #Napoleon #NapoleonicWars #MilitaryHistory #Wellington #Davout #NapoleonicGenerals #HistoryPodcast #GeneralsAndNapoleon
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’s strong-willed mother, known for her resilience and discipline, who raised one of history’s most iconic military leaders.From their noble Corsican roots to their roles during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Empire, learn how their ambitions, struggles, and values molded young Napoleon’s character, drive, and identity.💡 Perfect for fans of history, Napoleonics, and those curious about the family behind the legend.X/Twitter: @jkuehn50, @andnapoleon
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 than a century.Special guest Josh Meeks will break down the strategy, key commanders, ships of the line, and turning points, from HMS Victory to Nelson’s legendary signal — “England expects that every man will do his duty.” Discover why Trafalgar mattered beyond the battlefield, how it shaped the Napoleonic Wars, and why Nelson’s death turned him into a national hero.Perfect for fans of military history, naval warfare, Napoleon, and British historyX/Twitter: @andnapoleonPatreon: patreon.com/generalsandnapoleon
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 military campaigns, his relationship with the French Empire, and how he inspired Poland's national anthem.Was he a freedom fighter, a pragmatist, or a pawn in Napoleon’s larger ambitions? Join us as we uncover the story of a general who fought not just for victory—but for the very soul of Poland.X/Twitter: @andnapoleon
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 conditions.Special guest Josh Provan discusses the key phases of the battle, including the fighting on Cerro de Medellín, French night assaults, and Wellington’s disciplined defensive tactics. Learn why Talavera earned Wellesley his peerage, exposed the limits of Spanish cooperation, and revealed the challenges Britain would face in Iberia—despite tactical success.Ideal for listeners interested in the Napoleonic Wars, Wellington, Spanish campaigns, and 19th-century warfare.X/Twitter: @LandOfHistory, @andnapoleon
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, and concentration of force to defeat larger coalitions at battles like Austerlitz, Ulm, and Jena–Auerstedt, while also examining the limits of his system in Spain and Russia. Learn how logistics, artillery, and flexible command allowed the Grande Armée to dominate—and why these same strategies eventually failed against adaptive enemies.Perfect for fans of military history, strategy and tactics, and operational-level warfare.X/Twitter: @HistorianAbel, @andnapoleon
In this episode, we compare and contrast 2 minds of war: Clausewitz vs. Jomini. Special guest and professor Joshua Meeks joins the show to give us an overview on their respective biographies and their military theories. We will discuss all of the following:🔍 1. Philosophy of War🎯 Theory vs. Application 🧠 View of the Commander⚔️ Tactical and Strategic Emphasis🌍 Legacy and InfluenceThanks for watching/listening!X/Twitter: @andnapoleon
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 Jonas de Neef breaks down the battlefield tactics and Napoleon’s reliance on mass artillery to secure victory—despite the absence of his experienced cavalry. Learn why Lützen was a tactical success but strategic warning, revealing the strengths and weaknesses of Napoleon’s new army and setting the stage for the campaigns of Bautzen, Dresden, and ultimately Leipzig.Ideal for listeners interested in the Napoleonic Wars, 1813 campaign, Prussian–Russian resistance, and the decline of Napoleon’s military system.X/Twitter: @andnapoleon
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 during the French Revolutionary Wars, his service under Napoleon, and his key role in campaigns across Portugal and Spain, including the aftermath of Évora and the retreat toward Torres Vedras. Learn how Loison’s aggression contrasted with Napoleon’s expectations, why his conduct damaged French political goals in Iberia, and how his career reflects the wider failures of French strategy in Spain.Bluesky: @bubblesvampire.bsky.social, @andnapoleon.bsky.social
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 British infantry under crushing fire, and the role of Spanish and Portuguese troops in holding the line. Learn why Albuera was a tactical stalemate but strategic Allied success, how it exposed both the strength and fragility of coalition warfare, and why veterans remembered it as one of the most brutal fights of the Napoleonic era.X/Twitter: @andnapoleon
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 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
Comments
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States