Catholic Emancipation

Catriona Kennedy joins us to explore the history of Catholic emancipation in Britain, the slow shift towards toleration, scapegoating and the final Emancipation Act's social and political implications, along with the key figures involved, including the pivotal role of the Duke of Wellington, Robert Peel and Daniel O'Connell.Support the show at: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspodCatriona's Work:Narratives of the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, Military and Civilian Experience in Britain and Ireland, 1793 to 1815 - https://www.palgrave.com/gp/book/9783030559274Women, Politics and the Irish Public Sphere in the Age of Revolution - https://www.oxford.com/academic/works/9780198807474University of York - Catriona Kennedy Profile - https://www.york.ac.uk/history/people/academic-staff/katrina-kennedy/University of Southampton Special Collections - Wellington Papers - https://www.southampton.ac.uk/archives/collections/wellington-papers.pageChapters00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest Katrina Kennedy01:00 Historical context: Catholic persecution from the Reformation to 182902:25 The legal status of Catholics in Britain in the late 18th century05:36 Reasons behind the relaxation of anti-Catholic laws in the 1790s08:55 Impact of the French Revolution on British attitudes towards Catholics11:03 The shifting concept of Britishness and Irish identity21:44 The rise of Daniel O'Connell and the Catholic campaign in Ireland24:19 Wellington's opposition and the political crisis of 182933:05 The relationship between King George IV and Wellington during emancipation37:53 Public opinion, prejudice, and the social impact of emancipation42:07 Modern parallels: anti-Catholic prejudice and othering49:43 Conclusion: The social and political legacy of Catholic emancipationKeywordsCatholic emancipation, British history, Irish history, Act of Union, Daniel O'Connell, Wellington, Irish immigrants, 19th century politics

In this Battle Series episode of the The Napoleonic Wars Podcast, we head to southern Italy to unpack the dramatic and sometimes misunderstood Battle of Maida with historian Richard Hopton author of 'The Battle of Maida, 1806: Fifteen Minutes of Glory'.We set the stage with the wider Mediterranean campaign before diving into the opposing commanders, John Stuart and Jean Reynier, and the bold decisions that brought both armies into open battle.From the geography of the Maida plain to the eerie “awful silence” before bayonets clash, we reconstruct the battle moment by moment. At its heart lies the famous “fifteen minutes” that shattered the French attack, was this a triumph of fire discipline, leadership, or something more complex?We also tackle one of Napoleonic history’s biggest debates: line versus column. What really happened on the day, and how did Maida become a textbook case albeit accurately or not?Finally, we explore the aftermath, its strategic impact, its place in British military memory, and whether Maida deserves its reputation as a pivotal moment.A fast paced, myth busting deep dive into one of the era’s most fascinating battles that may have set up some of Britain's most decorated commaders for sucess in future campaigns. For more on Richard’s published works and where to find them, please click here Richard Hopton - Author | Historian | Journalist - Richard Hopton

In this second instalment we return to the saddle with historian Josh Proven to uncover the hidden mechanics behind cavalry warfare during the Napoleonic Wars.This episode goes beyond the charge to explore how cavalry actually functioned under the chaos of battle. How did commanders maintain control over fast moving formations at Waterloo or Eylau? Were signals, discipline, and doctrine enough or was unpredictability inevitable?We then dive deep into the lifeblood of cavalry, horses. From vast remount systems in France, Austria, and Britain to Russia’s reliance on native herds, we examine the logistical and economic struggle to keep armies mounted. How were horses sourced, trained, and conditioned for the terror of gunfire and close combat? And how did different cultures, from European cuirassiers to Cossacks and Tatars shape the relationship between rider and mount?Finally, we explore the often overlooked realities of campaign life, feeding, shoeing, transporting, and caring for thousands of horses. With limited veterinary support and immense logistical strain, cavalry effectiveness often hinged on equine survival.If Part 1 was about how cavalry fought, Part 2 reveals what made it possible.More of Josh's work can he found here Home - Joshua Provan

Historian and Rifles veteran Tim Saunders joins us to delve into the history, ethos, and legacy of the 95th Rifles, a distinguished unit of the British Army during the Napoleonic Wars. We discuss their formation, training, and the impact of their unique weaponry, including the Baker rifle. The discussion also explores the challenges faced by the unit, their portrayal in popular culture through Bernard Cornwell's 'Sharp'e series, and the lasting influence of the 95th on modern military practices.Tim's books: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Tim-Saunders/a/227Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspodKeywords95th Rifles, Napoleonic Wars, British Army, light infantry, military history, Tim Saunders, Baker rifle, green jacket, Peninsula War, legacyTime Stamps: All timings approximate00:00 Introduction to the 95th Rifles02:17 The Formation and Evolution of the 95th Rifles12:20 The Ethos and Character of the Rifle Corps19:09 Training Regimen and Marksmanship of the 95th27:08 The Baker Rifle: A Game Changer for the 95th32:59 The Evolution of Wellington's Army41:35 The Significance of the Green Jacket42:06 The Impact of the Peninsula War49:34 Challenges and Failures of the 95th55:06 The Legacy of the 95th and Popular Culture

In a world first, Sean Bean and Bernard Cornwell sit down to share their memories about how they shaped Sharpe, and how Sharpe shaped them.Will Sean reveal where the inimitable use of 'bastard' came from? Does Bernard settle the argument on which Sharpe novel is the best? Where did the idea of Sharpe come from.From fan questions, to an exclusive reading from the new Sharpe novel featuring Bernard, Sean and the hosts of the podcast, perhaps the most hotly anticipated Sharpe interview ever is about to stream right here, on the Napoleonic Wars Podcast. This is the ultimate interview for anyone who has watched the TV series, read the books, or was introduced to the Napoleonic Wars through this cult classic.Sharpe's Storm: https://thecleevebookshop.co.uk/products/9780008496821?srsltid=AfmBOoqKQgLD5rQ3B8KecvoosLJCC9HU33iSFx3J4nSUkr_EPtT85wvtReleased to the public: 8th April 2026 

What does it take to make a Marshal of France. Of the 26 individuals that Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte elevated to the highest military rank of the first French Empire, there were a myriad of similarities and differences - ostentatious, arrogant, specialists, administrators, inspirational figures, princes and paupers.To delve into the characters of these exalted figures of military and Napoleonic history, Rachael Stark and Dr Graeme Callister sit down to unpick the lives and styles of command of the French Marshals. We cover the diversity of the marshals' backgrounds, Napoleon's influence on marshal selection, the relationships between Napoleon and his marshals, and their strategic and tactical successes and failures.Graeme's Books: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Dr-Graeme-Callister/a/4546Timestamps (All timings approximate):00:00 Introduction to the Marshals of France02:47 Diversity Among the Marshals06:10 Napoleon's Influence on His Marshals08:53 Origins and Backgrounds of the Marshals11:51 The Impact of Early Life Experiences14:59 Training and Military Education18:13 The Role of Luck and Timing20:59 Relationships with Napoleon24:14 The Marshals' Loyalty and Pragmatism27:01 Listening to the Marshals30:00 Personality Dynamics Among the Marshals46:05 Exploring Personality Traits of Marshals50:05 The Role of Arrogance in Leadership56:55 Inspiration vs. Administration in Command Styles01:04:03 Evaluating the Choices of Marshals01:07:27 Strategic and Tactical Command Styles01:19:08 Comparing French Marshals to Their Opponents01:25:38 Public Perception of MarshalsKeywordsNapoleon, marshals, military leadership, history, strategy, personalities, Napoleon's generals, military history, leadership traits, Napoleonic Wars

In this episode of the The Napoleonic Wars Podcast, we saddle up and ride into part 1 of the dramatic world of cavalry warfare during the Napoleonic Wars with historian and author Josh Proven.From the thunderous heavy cavalry charges to the lightning fast scouting of light horsemen, we explore how mounted troops shaped battlefields across Europe and beyond. Josh breaks down the different cavalry types and explains how armies from France, Britain, and Russia deployed them in radically different ways. We dig into the culture of cavalry, elite training, battlefield discipline, and the prestige that surrounded the mounted arm.But cavalry warfare wasn’t just a European story. We also examine the role of irregular horsemen and the mounted forces of the Ottoman Empire and India, revealing how global traditions of cavalry influenced the era’s conflicts.And of course, horses. Where did the thousands of horses come from? How were they trained for the chaos of battle, and how well were they cared for?Finally, we relive some of the most famous cavalry moments of the era, devastating charges, heroic feats, and spectacular disasters that defined the mounted arm of Napoleonic warfare.If you love battlefield tactics, military culture, and epic cavalry action, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.For more about Josh and his works please visit Home - Joshua ProvanFor all our exclusive Podcast merchandise please visit Discover Our Exclusive Range at Napoleonic Wars Podcast

In an emergency recording Gareth Glover sits down with Zack to discuss a major auction of Napoleonic letters, the importance of preserving historical documents, and how the community can help save these invaluable pieces of history from private collections. The episode emphasises the significance of public access and proper preservation of military heritage, and the way that listeners can chip in to safeguard this remarkable cache of documents for future generations.Support Gareth's fundraising bid directly via paypal by searching for this account: [email protected] Gareth that you would like to pledge an amount, or discuss more details with him via email at: [email protected] information available on facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/waterlooassociation/permalink/24547146224983255/

Who was the 'Darling Child of Victory'? What characterised his style as a commander? What were his greatest moments? And why was he such an inveterate looter?Marshal Massena is the focus of the latest episode as the Marshals series makes a welcome return to the Napoleonic Wars Podcast. Rachael Stark holds court as we discuss how he compared to other marshals and to Napoleon himself, the relationship between the two men, and the peaks and troughs of his career, stymied by ill health.This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Marshal Massena, a prominent figure in the Napoleonic Wars. The discussion covers his early life, rise through the military ranks during the French Revolution, his command style, significant victories in Italy, and the challenges he faced during the Peninsular War. The conversation also explores his retirement, return to service, and the impact of his health on his later years, culminating in his death in 1817. Throughout, the complexities of his character and the perceptions of his legacy are examined.Chapters00:00 The Legacy of Marshal Massena03:00 Early Life and Military Beginnings05:45 Rise to Prominence in the Revolutionary Army09:09 Command Style and Relationships with Peers12:10 Key Contributions in the Italian Campaigns14:53 Controversies and Command Challenges18:03 Strategic Brilliance in Switzerland20:46 Post-Genoa and Retirement Life23:55 Return to Service and the Peninsular War35:12 The Impact of Mental and Physical Strain36:22 Injuries and Their Consequences37:15 Elevation to Prince of Essling38:48 Challenges in the Peninsula War40:34 Expectations and Realities of Command42:08 Resource Limitations in Spain43:45 Reputation After the Peninsula War46:20 Napoleon's Disappointment with Messena50:31 Return to Napoleon's Side in 181554:54 The End of Messena's Military Career58:51 Legacy and Historical Perception

To mark International Women's Day we ask 'Who was the most powerful woman of the Napoleonic era?' 'Did women weild 'soft power', 'hard power' or just plain old power?' and 'have women been quietly weilding the power for years, while the men fail to notice?'This episode of the Napoleonic Wars Pod delves into the complex dynamics of power during the Napoleonic era, focusing on the influence of women such as Josephine, Queen Louise of Prussia, and Dorothea von Lieven. The discussion explores the distinctions between hard and soft power, the role of women in shaping political landscapes, and the legacy of these influential figures. Through engaging pitches and lively debate, the guests highlight how these women navigated a male-dominated world to exert their influence and power. Beatrice de Graaf joins the usual gang to debate this topic.Chapters00:00 The Riddle of Power02:57 Defining Power: Hard vs. Soft05:53 Influence Behind the Throne08:47 The Role of Women in Power Dynamics12:01 Napoleon's Circle: Who Influences Him?14:52 The Power of Memory and Propaganda18:00 Pitching Powerful Women of the Era21:07 The Case for Dorothea von Lieven23:48 Queen Louise of Prussia: A Political Force27:02 Josephine: The Empress Behind the Emperor30:07 The Legacy of Powerful Women