The Napoleonic Wars Podcast

In the run up to our hotly anticipated interview with Sean Bean and Bernard Cornwell (titled Sharpe's Confession), Zack, Liam and Louie sit down to discuss some of the greatest moments from the Sharpe franchise. From best books to most diabolical villains we dissect the series to discuss the high points of the novels and TV series which we have so often described as 'the gateway drug into the Napoleonic era'.What do you think? What did we miss? Leave your thoughts in the comments!Support the show at: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspod?vanity=userChapters (All timings approximate):00:00 Introduction to the Sharpe Series01:43 Debating the Greatest Sharpe Book02:55 Liam's Pitch: Sharpe's Storm18:40 Louie's Pitch: Sharpe's Tiger32:41 Zack's Pitch: Sharpe's Waterloo38:43 The Dynamics of Sharpe and Waterloo41:22 Character Development and Historical Context44:29 The Appeal of Historical Drama46:12 TV Adaptations: A Mixed Bag55:54 Imagining Future AdaptationsTags: Sharpe series, Bernard Cornwell, Napoleonic Wars, historical fiction, book review, character analysis, Sharpe's Storm, Sean Bean, military history, emotional depth.

What did it take to survive the Napoleonic Wars? How did soldiers withstand the privations of campaign? And how did they balance the need to carry their worldly possessions on their shoulder, with the need to remain comfortable, and follow army regulations?Away from the famous battles and privileged lives of commanders, daily survival depended on clothing, equipment, and constant improvisation.In this episode, historian Dr Zack White sits down with Napoleonic historian, re-enactor, and British army veteran Liam Telfer to explore the reality of life on campaign for Napoleonic soldiers. We examine what they carried, from uniforms and packs to weapons and personal items, and how practical—or impractical—their kit often proved to be. From worn shoes and heavy coats to the constant struggle to stay dry, fed, and healthy, were uniforms a burden as a badge of identity?The episode also looks beyond the battlefield to what truly mattered when the fighting stopped: food, shelter, firewood, repairs, and rest. We discuss how soldiers adapted their equipment, modified their uniforms, scavenged for supplies, and relied on camaraderie to endure long marches, harsh weather, and relentless campaigning.By focusing on the ordinary soldier rather than the generals, this episode reveals how endurance, routine, and resourcefulness were just as vital as musket and bayonet in surviving the Napoleonic Wars.#NapoleonicWars#MilitaryHistory#LifeOfASoldier#NapoleonicSoldier#HistoricalUniforms#CampaignLife#19thCenturyHistory#WarAndSurvival#LivingHistory#EuropeanHistory#SoldiersOnCampaign

The French Imperial Guard has a reputation as the elite, all conquering crack troops of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. But how justified is that reputation? Dr Graeme Callister joins us to talk about the formation of the Guard, its reputation, organisation, combat record and discipline, to unpick the myth from the reality.Get exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspod

Professor Kevin Linch joins us for a deep dive into how the British Army waged war. We discuss the army's organisation, the role of regimental guns, infantry tactics, the challenges faced by cavalry, and the importance of artillery innovations. The conversation also explores the complexities of combined arms operations, the integration with allies, and the significant influence of the Royal Navy on military campaigns. Throughout, the discussion highlights the lessons learned from both successes and failures, emphasising the resilience and adaptability of the British Army over time.Support the show at:https://www.patreon.com/cw/thenapoleonicwarspodKeywordsBritish Army, Napoleonic Wars, military structure, tactics, artillery, cavalry, combined arms, regimental guns, Wellington, historyChapters (Timings approximate)00:00 The Structure of the British Army07:57 Artillery and Regimental Guns12:44 Infantry Tactics and Formations17:19 Defensive Strategies and Perceptions21:31 Combined Arms Operations26:13 The Role of Corps and Divisions30:26 Cavalry Effectiveness and Challenges32:05 The Doctrine of the British Cavalry36:54 Artillery Innovations and Tactics41:05 Commanders in Crisis: Successes and Failures45:38 Professionalization of the British Army53:34 Integration with Allied Forces01:00:00 The Role of the Navy in British Military Success01:06:34 Lessons Learned: Resilience and Adaptation

The climax of our epic 'Battle of the Marshals' showdown arrives tonight, as the man who has come to define perceptions of a Chief of Staff, Louis-Alexandre Berthier, and the Iron Marshal Nicolas Davout go head to head in our grand final.After hours of discussion, pitches from our most loyal fans, votes, lobbying, balloon debates and back stabbing, we have whittled France's most exalted commanders of the Napoleonic era down to just two. Who wins? You decide.Professor Edward Coss, Emeritus Professor of the United States Command and General Staff College champions Bethier, whilst the maestro of the Marshal series Rachael Stark fights for Davout in an extended debate that ranges widely on these men's skills, flaws, greatest success, and biggest embarrassment. Who take the crown is in your hands. Comment below, vote on social media, share with your friends, and get involved in the discussion, to see your favourite take one of the greatest titles in Napoleonic history: Napoleon's Greatest Marshal.Merry Christmas to all our fans, and a huge thanks to everyone who has been involved in this incredible series.Support out show: https://www.patreon.com/cw/thenapoleonicwarspod

We delve into the historical context of the British defence during the early 19th century, focusing on the Fencibles, a unique military formation. The discussion highlights the origins, roles, and significance of the Fensibles in Scotland, their impact on British identity, and the complexities of soldiering during this period. Rory Butcher, PhD candidate at the University of Leeds, provides insights into how the Fencibles were formed as a response to military needs and how they navigated issues of loyalty, identity, and service.Support the show at: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspodFind out more on Rory's work at: https://x.com/RMB_HistoryChapters (Timings Approximate)00:00 The Context of the British Defence08:53 Understanding the Fencibles17:46 The Role and Responsibilities of the Fencibles25:01 Cultural Impact and Legacy of the Fencibles35:32 Regimental Justice and Discipline38:46 Desertion and Its Implications41:14 The Nature of Soldiering Contracts46:07 Professionalism in the Army50:51 British Identity and the Fencibles55:45 The Complexity of Military IdentityKeywordsBritish Defence, Fencibles, Scottish History, Napoleonic Wars, Military History, Home Defence, British Identity, Soldiering, 18th Century, Jacobite Rebellion

In our first episode of this new series, Dr John McAleer and host Dr Zack White delve into the history and significance of the East India Company, exploring its origins, its role in the British Empire, and its impact on India and the world. We discuss the complexities of trade, competition, and the transition from a mercantile enterprise to a military power, culminating in the pivotal events leading to the Battle of Plassey.Support the show on patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/cw/thenapoleonicwarspodTakeawaysThe East India Company was a major player in global trade.It significantly impacted the lives of millions across continents.The company laid the foundations for the British Empire in India.Understanding the East India Company is crucial for grasping Britain's multicultural society.The company's rise was not inevitable; it faced many challenges.The Mughal Empire was a sophisticated political entity during the company's early years.European rivalries influenced the dynamics of trade in India.The East India Company transitioned from trade to military power in the 18th century.The company became a state in disguise, exerting political control.The Battle of Plassey marked a turning point in the company's history.Chapters (timings approximate)00:00 The Rise of the East India Company11:03 Understanding the Impact of Imperialism21:00 Navigating Competition in the Indian Ocean29:51 Cultural Perceptions and Misunderstandings31:44 The East India Company: A Historical Perspective35:46 Understanding the Mughal Empire's Influence40:33 European Rivalries and Diplomatic Maneuvers45:39 The Tenuous Position of the English Company49:49 Transition to Military Power54:38 Proxy Wars and Political Intrigues59:44 The Metamorphosis of the East India CompanyKEYWORDSEast India Company, British Empire, imperialism, history, trade, globalization, colonialism, Mughal Empire, military history, 18th century

What was a mutiny? Why did they matter? And once you started mutinying against your officers, how did you try to ensure that you weren't executed for your troubles?Dr Callum Easton sits down with our very own Zack White to discuss mutinies in the Royal Navy and the East India Company Army as they compare and contrast the language, aims and management of these seditious acts.Buy Callum's book at: https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-98840-0?source=shoppingads&locale=en-gb&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=18594397130&gbraid=0AAAAADu685NMss3J-EAb3lpHn8W_5Vewg&gclid=CjwKCAiA3L_JBhAlEiwAlcWO5xKSiyBlZglKfhzAiVZjaxCo3gkrLjt1QW0v0utISfpk5P9kFpVPtBoChQUQAvD_BwESupport our work at: https://www.patreon.com/cw/thenapoleonicwarspod

On the 18th June 1815, three fires broke out in central Belgium, that would go down in the annals of military history.The first, and perhaps least well known, would actually prove to be pivotal in the scale of Napoleon’s defeat at Waterloo, delaying the arrival of Bulow’s IV Prussian corps to the point that it would take them 12 hours to march from Wavre to Plancenoit on Napoleon’s right flank, arriving at a time when the Emperor was hopelessly over committed to the fight against Wellington’s Anglo-Dutch troops. The second is often sidelined to a passing comment in the story of the defence of La Haye Sainte, as the Kings German Legion defenders of the farm, one of Wellington’s three forward positions at Waterloo, scrambled to douse the flames with their camp kettles whilst coming under fire from the French.The third holds an almost mythological status – Hougoumont. The siege within a battle that saw a multination force of Coldstream, and Scots Guards, alongside Hanoverian and Nassau troops. As they did so, the chateau famously bruned around them.There are few things more disconcerting than trying to defend a burning building from a few thousand angry French, whilst also trying to not die as a result of the flames. But what was it actually like for the defenders for hougoumont? What were their bodies going? How did the fire spread? And what could they actually do to try and deal with the literal conflagration around them?In the latest instalment of the Napoleonic Wars Podcast, firefighter, veteran and historian Liam Telfer joins us to discuss how you fight a fire while under fire.Join our mailing list at: ⁠https://linktr.ee/napwarspod⁠Support the show and get episodes early at: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspod#Hougoumont #HougoumontFarm #BattleOfWaterloo #Waterloo1815 #NapoleonicWars #Wellington #DukeOfWellington #ColdstreamGuards #HistoricalBattlefields #MilitaryHistory #NapoleonicHistory #HistoryPodcast #BritishArmyHistory #HoldTheGates #Fire #Firefighter

In this episode, we dive into the fierce two-day struggle that became one of the defining moments of the Peninsular War: the Battle of Talavera. From the blazing July heat to the confusion of night assaults, we examine how Sir Arthur Wellesley—soon to become the Duke of Wellington—held his fragile Anglo-Spanish line against repeated French attacks.We explore the drama behind the battlefield: the strained coordination with General Cuesta, the bold French offensive under Victor and Jourdan, and the tactical decisions that turned Talavera into a brutal contest of discipline, firepower, and sheer endurance. Through narrative storytelling and clear military analysis, this episode brings you into the smoke, the volleys, and the human cost of one of Wellesley’s earliest—and hardest-won—victories.Find out more about Josh's work at: ⁠https://www.helion.co.uk/people/joshua-provan.php⁠Join our mailing list at: ⁠https://linktr.ee/napwarspodSupport out work at: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspod#BattleOfTalavera #Talavera1809 #PeninsularWar #NapoleonicWars #Wellesley #DukeOfWellington #SpanishWarOfIndependence #MilitaryHistory #HistoryPodcast #NapoleonicBattles

In this episode, historian Josh Provan joins us to trace the tense, twisting campaign that led to the Battle of Talavera—a confrontation born not just of French ambition, but of uneasy alliances, political blunders, and the grinding realities of Peninsular warfare.We explore how Sir Arthur Wellesley set himself and his men on a collision course with both Joseph Bonaparte’s French army and his own Spanish allies. From logistical nightmares to clashing personalities, from the chaotic advance toward Madrid to the stubborn stand on the banks of the Tormes, this is the story of how a campaign fraught with mistrust and miscalculation forged one of Wellesley’s most hard-fought victories.Expect deep context, sharp analysis, and the human side of the campaign—the commanders, the soldiers, and the decisions that shaped the battlefield even before a single shot was fired at Talavera.Find out more about Josh's work at: https://www.helion.co.uk/people/joshua-provan.phpJoin our mailing list at: https://linktr.ee/napwarspodSupport the show and get episodes early at: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspod#NapoleonicWars #PeninsularWar #BattleOfTalavera #Wellesley #ArthurWellesley #SpanishWarOfIndependence #MilitaryHistory #HistoryPodcast #NapoleonicWarsPodcast #Talavera1809

Following the lively debate that sprang up around our episode on 'Who was better: Wellington or Napoleon', we took the time to sit down and carefully consider some of the interesting questions and counter arguments made by our listeners. Who was Wellington's Berthier? Is criticising Wellington anti-British? Was Wellington's political career really that bad? Was Napoleon really better than Caesar? Support our work on patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspodJoin our mailing list: https://linktr.ee/napwarspod

By 1815, London had long considered itself the centre of Britain and the wider Empire, so how did it respond when “the greatest victory which History records” (The Chester Chronicle) occurred a mere 200 miles from it? By co-opting it, naturally. Moving away from previous work on the Waterloo Banquet and Vauxhall’s Waterloo fete, this talk explores some of the ways in which ordinary Londoners experienced Waterloo, including walking over a bridge named after it, seeing relics from it, and witnessing it recreated on stage and canvas.In October 2025, our very own 'Beau', Dr Luke 'Memory' Reynolds, gave a talk at York St John on 'Staging Waterloo: The Battle in the Capital'. Whilst you've heard him before on the show talking about the Waterloo Banquet, for this one he focused on other aspects from paintings to bridges and on to stage shows all trying to capture the battle.With the very kind permission of York St John University, we present for you listening pleasure a recording of that talk.For more events from York St John University, visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/york-st-john-university-1088934555

Who was the better battlefield general? Napoleon Bonaparte, Emperor of the French, or Arthur Wellesley, first Duke of Wellington, and darling (sort of) of the British army.Recently famed author of the Sharpe's series of novels Bernard Cornwell set the social media sphere ablaze by once again igniting this age old discussion. The response, predictably, divided social media, but what happens when some historians weigh in to try and settle this issue?Your favourite Napoleonic Wars Pod hosts, Napoleonic historians Dr Zack White, Dr Luke Reynolds, and Mr Liam Telfer take to the boxing ring in this one, as Liam makes the case for Wellington, Zack (unusually) makes the case for Napoleon, Luke can't decide whether he's a moderator or a debater, and ultimately we all end up agreeing.Logistics. Destruction of armies. Limited campaigns. Movement. Motivation. Skill. Success. Legacy. All come under the spotlight in a bruising assessment of the strengths and not inconsiderable weakness of both of these commanders, as we pop the usual myths, weigh in on some of the more partisan comments, and put the case to you to get involved in this debate.Support this content on patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/thenapoleonicwarspodSign up to our newsletter here: https://linktr.ee/napwarspod

Step onto the blood-soaked fields of October 1813 as we revisit the Battle of Leipzig, the titanic clash that earned the title “Battle of the Nations.” In this episode of the Napoleonic Wars Podcast, we sit down with acclaimed historian John H. Gill to unravel the epic story of the largest battle in Europe before the First World War.Gill guides us through the dramatic build-up after Napoleon’s disastrous Russian campaign, the rise of the Sixth Coalition, and the meticulous Allied strategy that finally cornered the Emperor at Leipzig. Over four days of brutal fighting, Napoleon faced shifting fronts, wavering allies, and the relentless pressure of fresh enemy armies. From the opening clashes on October 16th to the disastrous retreat across the Elster River, we explore the critical decisions, battlefield genius, and costly mistakes that sealed Napoleon’s fate.But this isn’t just about tactics, we also uncover the staggering human cost: tens of thousands dead and wounded, civilian suffering on a massive scale, and the haunting aftermath left behind.Join us for a gripping deep dive into the turning point of the Napoleonic Wars, where the fall of an empire truly began.Click here for more on John H. Gill's work Pen and Sword Books: Titles by John H Gill

CONTENT WARNING: There is very strong language, and discussion of topics of a sexual nature from the very start and throughout this podcast. Listener discretion is advised.Why is the idea of 'normal' sex a bit of a myth? What does it mean to be 'sexually deviant', and who gets to make that call? What happens if you are found to be 'sexually deviant'? And why did the powers that be care more about some forms of deviancy than others?Eleanor Janega and Seth Le Jacq return to the show to discuss what deviancy was and wasn't, where 'deviant' and more general sexual acts took place during the Napoleonic era, and how understanding people's attitudes to sex during this period helps us to understand society, both in the 19th century, and today.This episode is not for the faint-hearted - you have been warned!Support the show on patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspodJoin our mailing list: https://linktr.ee/napwarspod

On 2nd December 1805 Napoleon achieved what was perhaps his greatest victory. Over the course of the short winter's day he shattered the coalition force arrayed against him on the Pratzen heights, in a victory that would help him to usher in a new order in Europe.But what actually happened on that bitterly cold day? Who was responsible for this crushing victory? And how the has the battle been mythologised over the last 220 years?Alex Mikaberidze returns for the blistering conclusion to this double-bill on Napoleon's finest hour. We discuss combatants, missed opportunities, blunders, bravery, legacies and much more as we finally deliver the episode that you've all been waiting for.

In this episode of The Napoleonic Wars Podcast, we’re joined by world renowned historian Dr. Alexander Mikaberidze, acclaimed author of The Napoleonic Wars: A Global History, for the first of a two part deep dive into one of Napoleon’s greatest triumphs: the Battle of Austerlitz.Part One, The Eve of Austerlitz, sets the stage for the clash that would reshape Europe. How did we get here? Dr. Mikaberidze unpacks the wider geopolitical currents of 1805, why Napoleon’s meteoric rise forced old enemies into uneasy alliances, and how the French and Allied armies maneuvered across central Europe to converge on a small town in Moravia that would soon be etched into history.We then explore one of the most remarkable aspects of Austerlitz: Napoleon’s mastery of deception. Far from stumbling into mistakes, the French Emperor feigned weakness, carefully baiting the Allies into overconfidence and error. Dr. Mikaberidze explains the subtle bluffs and calculated “blunders” that set the trap.Finally, we turn to the battlefield itself. From rolling hills to frozen ponds, what did the geography around Austerlitz mean for 19th-century warfare? And how did the terrain shape the epic confrontation that followed?For more information on Dr Mikaberidze's published work and where to find them please go to Alexander Mikaberidze, PhD

The Battle of Assaye has been called Arthur Wellesley’s first great victory, a clash that set the stage for his later fame as the Duke of Wellington. Outnumbered six to one by the mighty Maratha Confederacy, Wellesley’s 6,500 men faced a storm of cannon fire, disciplined infantry, and thousands of cavalry in a battle that could easily have ended in disaster. Instead, through bold gambles, ruthless determination, and sheer grit, Assaye became a defining moment in both the Second Anglo-Maratha War and in Wellesley’s own meteoric career.In this episode of the Napoleonic Wars Podcast, we sit down with historian and author Josh Provan to break down this bloody, high stakes showdown. We explore the political intrigue that led to war in India, the geography around the village of Assaye, and the snap decision that saw Wellesley launch his outnumbered army into one of the fiercest fights of his life. From desperate bayonet charges to Wellesley himself rallying troops in the thick of battle, Assaye has it all: courage, chaos, and consequences that reshaped British power in India.If you love epic battles, leadership under fire, and the origins of a legend, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.More of Josh Provan's work can be found here Joshua Provan - Biography | Helion & Company | Military History BooksFor all your exclusive podcast merchandise needs go to Napoleonic Wars Podcast | Discover Our Exclusive Range at Napoleonic Wars Podcast

Ready to blast through the walls of Napoleonic history? In this pounding episode of the Napoleonic Wars Podcast, we talk to Dr Zack White about his edited collection An Unavoidable Evil - Siege Warfare in the Age of Napoleon. Discover how the era of Napoleon wasn't all about Austerlitz and Waterloo; from the fortresses of Izmail and Braila to Wellington’s Peninsular sieges, we uncover the dramatic and gritty stories of sieges that shaped empires.We'll explore how siege warfare evolved during this period and why modern historians are turning their sights back on these crucial events. Dr White shares fresh insights from a team of top historians, bridging scholarly depth with battlefield excitement. Tune in as we delve into the strategies commanders used to crack fortress defenses, the challenges soldiers and civilians faced under relentless bombardment, and the lessons these epic sieges teach us about war and society. This is a must listen for military history enthusiasts craving a new perspective on the Napoleonic era's most explosive episodes!Zack's edited collection can be found here An Unavoidable Evil | From Reason to Revolution 1721-1815 | Helion & Company