Grey History: The French Revolution & Napoleon
William Clark
History isn't black and white, yet too often it's presented as such. Explore the ambiguities and nuances of the French Revolution.
- 1 hour 3 minutes1.91 Lazare Carnot: Organiser of Victory
Scientist. Patriot. Engineer. Revolutionary. Explore the many faces of Lazare Carnot, the famed Organiser of Victory. Perhaps the most celebrated member of the Committee of Public Safety, this episode tracks his ascent to the heights of revolutionary government. From military prison to singing societies, prepare for an unusual career.
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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
31 May 2025, 7:47 pm - 25 minutes 14 seconds1.90.1 The Spanish Front: Questions & Answers
From Catalans to Wars of Independence, Michael Hamel is back to anwer listener questions on the war with Spain!
Learn More
The Roussillon Campaign of 1793-94: Spain’s Lost Opportunity – Age of Revolutions
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Disclaimer
The opinions expressed herein are those of the individual and do not reflect the official policy or position of the U.S. Army, the United States Military Academy, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.
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19 May 2025, 12:56 pm - 1 hour 11 minutes1.90 Spain & The War of the Pyrenees with Michael Hamel
From success to disaster, explore Spain's war effort with Major Michael Hamel. Unpack the state of the Spanish Empire prior to 1789, the outbreak of war, and why Hamel defends Spanish leaders who other historians condemn. A complete account of the Pyrenees front, enjoy this fantastic interview on an overlook conflict!
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Learn More on the War of the Pyrenees
The Roussillon Campaign of 1793-94: Spain’s Lost Opportunity – Age of Revolutions
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!
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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!
Disclaimer
The opinions expressed herein are those of the individual and do not reflect the official policy or position of the U.S. Army, the United States Military Academy, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
15 May 2025, 9:01 pm - 1 hour 2 minutes1.89 The Republic Strikes Back!
Victories and triumphs! Surrounded, betrayed, and seemingly on the brink of collapse, the summer of 1793 was a dark era for the Republic. However, in a series of desperate battles, armies of citizen-soldiers defied the odds. Unpack the dramatic turning points of the War of the First Coalition — a story of blunders, brilliance, and battlefield miracles.
This episode examines the Battle of Hondschoote (1793), the Battle of Wattignies (1793), and the Second Battle of Wissembourg (1793).
Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 1.90 Spain & The War of the Pyrenees with Michael Hamel 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!
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Please contact [email protected] 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
1 May 2025, 1:13 pm - 33 minutes 22 secondsThe People's Voice Part I
Your Questions Answered! From the influence of Ancient Rome to using Terror for personal advantage, this Q&A episode unpacks a variety of fascinating topics!
Questions include:
1) Did the revolutionaries know of Ancient Roman attempts to control prices?
2) Was hoarding and speculation common? What was driving food shortages? Were shortages occurring across the Republic?
3) Did regular people use the Terror for self-interest and personal vendettas?
4) What powers did the high nobility have prior to the revolution?
Submit Your Questions!
Keen to have your questions answered? Either post them here, or submit a question in the community chat on Discord!
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, 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
Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 1.89 "The Republic Strikes Back!" now! Available for all True Revolutionaries and above!
Contact Me
Send your questions, praise, and scorn here
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Please contact [email protected] 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
27 April 2025, 9:36 am - 1 hour 5 minutes1.88 Total War II: Leadership and Tactics
Blood and bayonets! Amidst war and revolution, the French Republic must rebuild its shattered officer corps and overhaul outdated tactics. From the rise of meritocracy to the birth of a bold new military doctrine, discover how revolutionary France redefined modern warfare and prepared an unbelievable comeback!
Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 1.89 "The Republic Strikes Back!" now! Available for all True Revolutionaries and above!
Bonus Content
1.88.1 Skirmishers: Light & Lethal
Small units, big impact. Discover how untrained recruits became deadly assets on the battlefield, using speed, stealth, and surprise to disrupt traditional armies. From harassing enemy lines to shielding full-scale assaults, these troops helped redefine revolutionary warfare.
Explainer Videos
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!
Contact Me
Send your questions, praise, and scorn here
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Please contact [email protected] 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
17 April 2025, 4:24 pm - 1 hour 6 minutes1.87 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
1.87.2 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!
Contact Me
Send your questions, praise, and scorn here
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Please contact [email protected] 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
31 March 2025, 5:00 pm - 1 hour 4 minutes1.86 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!
Contact Me
Send your questions, praise, and scorn here
Newsletter
Sign Up for Free Bonus Episode
Follow on Social Media:
Advertising
Please contact [email protected] 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
15 March 2025, 4:00 pm - 47 minutes 55 seconds1.85 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
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!
Contact Me
Send your questions, praise, and scorn here
Newsletter
Sign Up for Free Bonus Episode
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Advertising
Please contact [email protected] 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
28 February 2025, 1:00 pm - 1 hour 5 minutes1.84 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
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!
Contact Me
Send your questions, praise, and scorn here
Newsletter
Sign Up for Free Bonus Episode
Follow on Social Media:
Advertising
Please contact [email protected] 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
15 February 2025, 7:27 am - 4 minutes 4 secondsCommunity Poll: Topics for Total War!
Vote Now! Total war is upon us! With the French armies in retreat, the Republic had no choice but to adapt. Developing a new era of modern warfare, the French army underwent radical transformations.
Episode 87 "Total War" will unpack the revolution of warfare. As such, I want your thoughts on the topics we should explore!
Please vote for those you’re most interested in (you can vote for multiple topics) and I will use this to craft future episodes and bonus content!
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!
Contact Me
Send your questions, praise, and scorn here
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13 February 2025, 5:00 pm - More Episodes? Get the App