The Napoleonic Wars Podcast

Epizodes

• The Baker Rifle - A Royal Armouries Exclusive 05.07.2026 21min

  The Baker Rifle is perhaps the most famous firearm of the Napoleonic era, propelled to a legendary status by the exploits of a certain Richard Sharpe in the novels by Bernard Cornwell.But how practical a weapon system was it? Was it really that revolutionary? And how did the British come to adopt this firearm in the midst of the Napoleonic Wars?We were privileged to be invited to the Royal Armours in Leeds to interview Peter Smithurst, and gain exclusive access to handle the real, antique weapons that we have all heard so much about.Was this weapon key to defeating Napoleon? Why didn't Napoleon Bonaparte adopt them? What did the soldiers themselves make of this new gun? We explore all these questions and many more.With huge thanks to the Royal Armouries, Leeds, UK.Peter's books: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Peter-G-Smithurst/a/5933Royal Armouries: https://royalarmouries.org/leeds
• The Peninsular War - Spain Falls - Autumn 1809 28.06.2026 1h 15min

  Josh Provan returns for the newest instalment of our blow by blow exploration of the Peninsular War, as we look at the Autumn of 1809. The Talavera campaign might have been over, but the suffering of the British Army was far from at an end. We open by looking at what one history described as 'the misery of the Guardiana', before turning once again to the Spanish perspective. One thrust on Madrid might have been over, but the Spanish were far from inclined to give up on independence. We explore the Battles of and Ocana, alongside political developments in the UK and Spain to understand why, by Christmas 1809, you might have been forgiven for thinking that the Peninsular War was all but over.Josh's books: https://www.helion.co.uk/people/joshua-provan.phpSupport the show at: www.patreon.com/thenapoleonicwarspod
• Napoleon seizes power - The Brumaire Coup, 1799 21.06.2026 1h

  Explore the intricate details of Napoleon's 1799 coup d'état, its strategic planning, execution, and the international reactions that shaped European history. Dr. Graeme Callister provides expert insights into this pivotal moment, in which Napoleon reached for power, and very nearly let it slip from his grasp. This is the story of the Brumaire Coup, the second instalment of our two parter on Napoleon's bid for power.Graeme's Books: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Dr-Graeme-Callister/a/4546Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Background01:43 The Plan for the Coup of 179904:16 Isolation and Support Strategies09:19 When the Directory Realizes the Threat12:33 Napoleon's Near-Miss and Panic Moment17:27 The Chamber Clearance and Final Overthrow22:50 The Role of Lucien Bonaparte and Military Force27:54 The Aftermath and Consolidation of Power36:44 The New Constitution and Legitimacy42:45 Napoleon's Decision-Making and Political Skill50:01 International Reactions and European Perspective55:54 Closing Remarks and Episode Sign-offkeywordsNapoleon, Coup of 1799, French Revolution, European History, Military Strategy, Political Manipulation
• Battle of Marengo 14.06.2026 1h 4min

  Explore the detailed strategic and tactical nuances of the Battle of Marengo, Napoleon's pivotal engagement in Italy, with Dr. Graeme Callister. Understand the battlefield geography, command decisions, and propaganda impact that shaped this crucial victory.Waterloo: The Attack of I Corps: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Waterloo-The-Attack-of-I-Corps-Paperback/p/58479Battle: Understanding Conflict from Hastings to Hellmand: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Battle-Hardback/p/21663Support the show at: https://www.patreon.com/thenapoleonicwarspodKeywordsNapoleon, Battle of Marengo, Italian Campaign, Military Strategy, 1800s Warfare, Austrians, French Army, Historical Battles, Military Tactics, Napoleon's RiseChapters00:00 Setting the Scene for Marengo09:39 Napoleon's Leadership and Strategy15:29 Morale and Conditions of the Armies18:02 Battlefield Geography and Tactical Considerations23:07 Plans and Expectations of Both Sides27:51 Tactical Doctrine and Decision Making30:45 The Battle Begins: Austrian Offensive36:49 French Forces in Distress47:14 The Turning Point: Arrival of Reinforcements55:41 From Defeat to Victory: The Counterattack01:00:56 The Aftermath: A Propaganda Victory
• The Napoleonic Great Escape 07.06.2026 1h 4min

  Captured by the French, stripped of his freedom, and confined hundreds of miles from home, Royal Navy officer Charles Hare faced a challenge that thousands of British prisoners dreamed of overcoming but few ever achieved, escape.In this episode, we sit down with Dr Katherine Gazzard of Royal Museums Greenwich to uncover the remarkable story behind one of the most extraordinary survival tales of the Napoleonic Wars. Drawing on Hare’s rediscovered journal, personal belongings, and the famous uniform that accompanied him on his journey, we follow the young naval officer from his early career at sea through his capture by the French and into the dangerous world of Napoleonic prisoner-of-war camps.How did British prisoners live in captivity? What risks did they face if they attempted to escape? And how did Hare manage to travel across enemy territory, evade capture, and make his way back to Britain?Along the way, we explore the wider experience of naval prisoners during the wars against Napoleon, the detective work that brought Hare’s story back into the spotlight, and the extraordinary legacy of a man whose determination turned a desperate gamble into one of the great escape stories of the age.Join us for an unforgettable journey of endurance, ingenuity, and adventure in the age of Napoleon.For more on Dr Gazzard's research please visit Spotlight Series: Charles Hare's Great Escape – Royal Museums Greenwich Shop and also her work Buy The Art of Naval Portraiture by Katherine Gazzard – Royal Museums Greenwich Shop
• Masquerades - The Ultimate Georgian Party? 31.05.2026 1h 9min

  Discover the fascinating world of 18th-century masquerades with cultural historian Dr. Megan Kobza. We explore the social, political, and artistic layers behind these extravagant events, revealing how masks and costumes served as tools of transgression, status, and social experimentation.Megan's book: https://yalebooks.co.uk/book/9780300276213/the-masquerade/Timestamps: 01:45 - The first masquerades in London: their origins and the political context 02:46 - Costume choices: character dressing, historic dress, and the domino 05:47 - The Georgian Masquerade: key features and differences from other entertainments 09:03 - Debauchery myths and the reality: episodes of flirtation and limited physical intimacy 13:01 - The real versus perceived debauchery: archival evidence and myth debunking 13:46 - Historical perceptions and fears of masquerades as sex parties and moral threats 15:23 - The political reactions: bans and the impact of earthquakes and natural calamities 16:51 - Masquerades as spaces of expression for the elite’s hidden desires 18:42 - Primary source material: diaries, newspapers, bills—and interpretative challenges 19:46 - Changing public perceptions: from scandal to entertainment 20:39 - Evolution of masquerades over the Georgian period: commercialization and accessibility 22:37 - The suppression and revival of masquerades: links to political crises and royal events 24:32 - The extravagant and costly nature of masquerades: from private commissions to public spectacles 28:41 - The role of newspapers, diaries, and visual artefacts in reconstructing masquerade history 39:26 - The suppression of masquerades outside elite spaces and legal repercussions 50:29 - The importance of storytelling and the role of visual culture in history 56:40 - How modern popular culture like Bridgerton celebrates and distorts those historical images 66:38 - The potential for masquerades to serve as spaces of resistance, identity, and societal critique
• Plotting Napoleon's Coup - Brewing Brumaire 24.05.2026 58min

  In 1799 Napoleon Bonaparte abandoned an army, and abandoned a government, launching a coup which would cement his place as a pivotal figure in history. Dr Graeme Callister returns to talk us through the political chaos, key figures, and strategic planning behind the event. We also discuss the revolutionary context, the role of military and political players, and the implications for French history.Buy Graeme's books at: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Dr-Graeme-Callister/a/4546Support the show at: https://www.patreon.com/thenapoleonicwarspodChapters00:00 The Rise of Napoleon: A Coup in 179903:01 Napoleon's Return from Egypt: A Savior or a Coward?06:10 The State of the Directory: A Failing Government08:58 The Impact of Personal Relationships on Political Decisions11:57 The Paranoia of French Politics: A Legacy of the Terror15:01 Key Figures in the Coup: Allies and Influencers17:49 The Role of the Military in Political Change21:14 The Future of France: Napoleon's Vision and Ambitions28:03 Key Figures in the Coup32:09 Political Dynamics and Military Influence35:10 Historical Parallels: The English Civil War39:00 Napoleon's Rise: From Second Choice to Leader50:14 The Coup Plan: Constitutional Manipulation54:32 Conclusion and Future DiscussionsKeywordsNapoleon Bonaparte, French Revolution, Brumaire Coup, French politics, military strategy, 1799, revolutionary France, political upheaval
• Looking like a Redcoat: Meet the Tailor 17.05.2026 55min

  Ever wanted to know what it takes to look like a redcoat? Join us as we explore the intricate world of historical military tailoring with expert James Graves. Discover the craftsmanship, research process, and challenges behind recreating authentic Napoleonic era uniforms, and get tips for reenactors and history enthusiasts alike. One of our 'Meet the...' range with leading historical experts which we usually save exclusively for our patrons. For more of these, join us on patreon.Graves' Historical Uniforms Facebook Page - https://facebook.com/GravesHistoricalUniformsSupport the show: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspodKeywordshistorical tailoring, military uniforms, Napoleonic Wars, reenactment, costume making, historical research, garment construction, museum collections, period textiles, reenactor tipsChapters00:00 Introduction to the Episode12:31 Meet the Tailor: James Graves15:55 The Journey into Historical Tailoring20:19 Researching Historical Uniforms24:25 Challenges in Historical Accuracy27:54 Navigating Historical Regulations and Contradictions28:31 Translating Research into Garments29:12 The Construction Process of Historical Uniforms32:40 Balancing Modern Techniques with Historical Authenticity37:15 Managing Customer Expectations in Historical Tailoring41:13 The Role of Living Historians in Tailoring Development49:28 The Future of Historical Tailoring and Personal Aspirations
• The Napoleonic Age of Alchemy 10.05.2026 1h 4min

  The Napoleonic era was a transformative age in the development of Alchemy and Chemistry. Explore the fascinating history of alchemy from ancient Egypt to the Napoleonic era, uncovering how early science evolved and influenced modern chemistry. Join Dr. Kit Chapman as he debunks myths, highlights key discoveries, and reveals the surprising connections between alchemy, science, and history. We blow the dust off the test tubes, and pull back the curtain on turning lead into gold, to give you an insight into how much was changing in the modern understanding of science as war waged across Europe.The Age of Alchemy by Dr. Kit Chapman - https://profilebooks.com/work/the-age-of-alchemy/Super Heavy: Making and Breaking the Periodic Table by Dr. Kit Chapman - https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/superheavy-9781472953926/Racing Green: How Motorsport Science Can Save the World by Dr. Kit Chapman - https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/racing-green-9781472982186/Dr. Kit Chapman - Official Website - https://kitchapman.comSupport the show at patreon.com/thenapoleonicwarspodTime Stamps:00:00 The Intersection of Alchemy and Chemistry04:49 Historical Context of Alchemy09:59 The Evolution of Alchemy to Chemistry15:02 The Napoleonic Era and Scientific Inquiry20:13 War as a Catalyst for Scientific Advancement24:47 The Role of Antoine Lavoisier30:54 The Life and Legacy of Antoine Lavoisier39:27 The Birth of Modern Chemistry45:35 Humphry Davy and the Discovery of Laughing Gas48:44 Mary Shelley and the Birth of Science Fiction54:26 Alchemy's Resurgence in the 19th Century56:38 Celebrating Unsung Heroes in ScienceKeywordsalchemy, history of science, chemistry, Napoleonic era, Lavoisier, alchemy myths, scientific revolution, history of elements, Humphrey Davy, Marie Curie
• Catholic Emancipation 03.05.2026 52min

  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
• The Battle of Maida 26.04.2026 52min

  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
• Cavalrymen of the Napoleonic Era 19.04.2026 1h 21min

  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
• 95th Rifles - Mythbusted 12.04.2026 1h 8min

  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
• Sharpe's Confession w/ Sean Bean & Bernard Cornwell 05.04.2026 1h 9min

  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 
• Making Napoleon's Marshals 29.03.2026 1h 36min

  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
• Cavalry in the Napoleonic Age Part 1 22.03.2026 1h 2min

  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
• Emergency Broadcast: Saving Napoleonic History 20.03.2026 42min

  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: geegee.glover1@outlook.comNotify Gareth that you would like to pledge an amount, or discuss more details with him via email at: geegee.glover1@outlook.comMore information available on facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/waterlooassociation/permalink/24547146224983255/
• Marshal Massena 15.03.2026 1h 3min

  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
• Most powerful woman of the Napoleonic era 08.03.2026 1h 33min

  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
• Redcoat Light Infantry 01.03.2026 1h

  In this episode of the Napoleonic Wars Podcast, we sit down with author, reenactor, and historian Rob Yuill to pull the Redcoated light infantry out from the long shadow of the Rifles.Why did the army convert ordinary battalions into specialist skirmishers? What problem were commanders trying to solve on the battlefields of the Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars?We explore the reforming vision of John Moore and the relentless field standards of Robert Craufurd, the leadership culture that forged units like the 43rd, 52nd, 68th and beyond into something entirely new. Not riflemen, but line infantry trained to think, move and fight independently, screening armies, probing terrain, harassing columns, and shaping the battlefield before the main line ever fired a volley.How did they train? How did they fight without rifles? Where did they succeed, and where did the system crack under campaign pressure? And why does popular history still misunderstand them?Finally, we assess their true legacy in the victories of the Duke of Wellington and why the Redcoat light infantry may have been a decisive instrument of British warfare in the Napoleonic age.For more on Rob's work, please visit ⁠https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Rob-Yuill/a/3769To support the show go to https://www.patreon.com/c/thenapoleonicwarspod