French Revolution & Napoleon (Grey History)
French Revolution & Napoleon (Grey History)

French Revolution & Napoleon (Grey History)

Grey History (William Clark)

Overview
Episodes

Details

History isn't black and white, yet too often it's presented as such. Explore the ambiguities and nuances of the French Revolution. Support the show today: https://www.patreon.com/greyhistory Ever wondered how the French Revolution started with hope for liberty and equality and descended into the Reign of Terror? Curious as to how the French Revolution still influences your life today? Looking for your next long-form, detailed history podcast recommended by universities and loved by French Revolution and Napoleon enthusiasts? Then Grey History The French Revolution and Napoleon is the history podcast for you!  In the first 12 episodes, we explore the origins of the French Revolution. Starting with French history in the late eighteenth century, the first two episodes examine the Estates of the Realm and the historic reigns of King Louis XIV and King Louis XV. We then dive into French involvement in the American Revolutionary War, and the profound impact this has on the history of France. Taking the time to contrast the experiences of contemporaries and the opinions of historians, we proceed to unpack the fall of the Old Regime (Ancien Régime), including the summoning of the Estates-General, the creation of the National Assembly (later the National Constituent Assembly), and the Tennis Court Oath. Finally, we dive into the dismissal of Jacques Necker and the series of events that triggered the Storming of the Bastille on 14 July 1789. Along the way, we routinely dive into contentious debates in the history of the French Revolution, before proceeding to examine the period of constitutional monarchy from 1789 to 1792.  From Episodes 13 - 35, Grey History The French Revolution and Napoleon examines the workings of the National Assembly, the Constitution of 1791, and the first year of the Legislative Assembly. This includes contentious debates surrounding the Assembly's religious reforms, including the nationalisation of church property, the issuing of assignats, the closure of monastic orders, and the Civil Constitution of the Clergy. It also includes historic events such as the October Days, the Flight to Varennes, and the declaration of the Revolutionary War. As we unpack the ever-changing events of Paris during the revolutionary era, you'll not only hear from historians from across the ideological spectrum, as well as key participants. This includes Maximilien Robespierre, Georges Danton, Jean-Paul Marat, the Comte de Mirabeau, Abbé Sieyès, Jean-Sylvain Bailly, the Marquis de Lafayette, and of course, the French royals, King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette. We'll also examine the factional dynamics emerging in the revolution, including the Jacobins (Montagnards), Girondins (Brissotins), Feuillants, and others. Finally, we will discuss international reactions to the French Revolution, including Edmund Burke's responses as well as those of foreign monarchs.  From Episode 36 onwards, we explore the fall of the monarchy on 10 August 1792, a gruesome and chaotic event that was ironically witnessed by the future French Emperor Napoléon Bonaparte. But, between the overthrow of King Louis XVI and the rise of the Napoleonic Empire a decade later, the history of France is one defined by turmoil, conspiracy, heartbreak, and bloodshed. From the September Massacres of 1792 to the Reign of Terror in 1793 and 1794, the French Revolution is an almost unbelievable tragedy of horror and crime. But, it's also an inspirational story of hope and heroism. Fighting for democratic principles, the French (and later Napoleonic) armies transformed world history forever, along with democratic societies. You absolutely don't want to miss out on the history of the French Revolution and the subsequent age of Napoleon!

Recent Episodes

1.87 Total War I: Conscription and Propaganda
MAR 31, 2025
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 warfare. Early Access Don't wait! Support the show and listen to 1.88 Total War II: Leadership and Tactics now! Available for all True Revolutionaries and above! Bonus Content 1.87.1 To Enlist or Resist 1.87.2 Stagecraft for Statecraft 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! Join Now And Support the Show Make a one-off donation Contact Me Send your questions, praise, and scorn here Newsletter Sign Up for Free Bonus Episode Follow on Social Media: Facebook Instagram X Advertising Please contact sales@advertisecast.com if you would like to advertise on Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon. All members of the Grey History Community have an ad-free version of the show. Support the show here. About Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon is a podcast dedicated to exploring the complexities of our history. By examining both the experiences of contemporaries and the conclusions of historians, Grey History seeks to unpack the ambiguities and nuances of the past. Understanding the French Revolution and the age of Napoleon Bonaparte is critical to understanding the history of the world, so join us on a journey through a series of events that would be almost unbelievable if it weren't for the fact that it's true! If you're looking for a binge-worthy history podcast on the Revolution and Napoleon, you're in the right place! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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67 MIN
1.86 Defeats and Dysfunction
MAR 15, 2025
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-Austrian forces focused on Condé and Valenciennes. Finally, it explores the contradictory aims of the great powers as each ally focuses on it's own geopolitical priorities in Poland, Belgium, and Bavaria. Early Access Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 87 "Total War I: Conscription and Propaganda" now! Available for all True Revolutionaries and above! 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! Join Now And Support the Show Make a one-off donation Contact Me Send your questions, praise, and scorn here Newsletter Sign Up for Free Bonus Episode Follow on Social Media: Facebook Instagram X Advertising Please contact sales@advertisecast.com if you would like to advertise on Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon. All members of the Grey History Community have an ad-free version of the show. Support the show here. About Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon is a podcast dedicated to exploring the complexities of our history. By examining both the experiences of contemporaries and the conclusions of historians, Grey History seeks to unpack the ambiguities and nuances of the past. Understanding the French Revolution and the age of Napoleon Bonaparte is critical to understanding the history of the world, so join us on a journey through a series of events that would be almost unbelievable if it weren't for the fact that it's true! If you're looking for a binge-worthy history podcast on the Revolution and Napoleon, you're in the right place! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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64 MIN
1.85 Virtue, Friendship and Terror with Dr Marisa Linton
FEB 28, 2025
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 of former friends, there's plenty to unpack! Don't miss this insightful deep dive into one of history's most controversial eras! Follow Dr Marisa Linton About X.com BlueSky Book Recommendations: Choosing Terror: Virtue, Friendship and Authenticity in the French Revolution Terror: The French Revolution and its Demons, with Michel Biard Early Access Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 86 "Defeats and Dysfunction" now! Available for all True Revolutionaries and above! 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! Join Now And Support the Show Make a one-off donation Contact Me Send your questions, praise, and scorn here Newsletter Sign Up for Free Bonus Episode Follow on Social Media: Facebook Instagram X Advertising Please contact sales@advertisecast.com if you would like to advertise on Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon. All members of the Grey History Community have an ad-free version of the show. Support the show here. About Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon is a podcast dedicated to exploring the complexities of our history. By examining both the experiences of contemporaries and the conclusions of historians, Grey History seeks to unpack the ambiguities and nuances of the past. Understanding the French Revolution and the age of Napoleon Bonaparte is critical to understanding the history of the world, so join us on a journey through a series of events that would be almost unbelievable if it weren't for the fact that it's true! If you're looking for a binge-worthy history podcast on the Revolution and Napoleon, you're in the right place! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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48 MIN
1.84 Yesterday's Heroes
FEB 15, 2025
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 fate of several revolutionaries who rose to prominence during the constitutional monarchy. This includes Necker, Talleyrand, Abbé Sieyès, Mayor Bailly, and the Feuillant leader Barnave. Early Access Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 85 "Virtue, Friendship, and Terror with Dr Marisa Linton" now! Available for all True Revolutionaries and above! 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! Join Now And Support the Show Make a one-off donation Contact Me Send your questions, praise, and scorn here Newsletter Sign Up for Free Bonus Episode Follow on Social Media: Facebook Instagram X Advertising Please contact sales@advertisecast.com if you would like to advertise on Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon. All members of the Grey History Community have an ad-free version of the show. Support the show here. About Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon is a podcast dedicated to exploring the complexities of our history. By examining both the experiences of contemporaries and the conclusions of historians, Grey History seeks to unpack the ambiguities and nuances of the past. Understanding the French Revolution and the age of Napoleon Bonaparte is critical to understanding the history of the world, so join us on a journey through a series of events that would be almost unbelievable if it weren't for the fact that it's true! If you're looking for a binge-worthy history podcast on the Revolution and Napoleon, you're in the right place! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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65 MIN