French Revolution & Napoleon (Grey History)

1.35 Science During the Revolutionary Era

Oct 9, 2021

This podcast explores the achievements of French scientists during the Revolutionary Era, including the discovery of oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen. It also delves into the early debates surrounding extinction and evolution, highlighting the intriguing discoveries of French naturalist Georges Cuvier. Explore the scientific understanding of fossils and the controversy surrounding extinction, as well as the debates on evolution and comparative anatomy in the late 18th century. Discover the identification of large extinct animals by Cuvier and other scientists, leading to an explanation of their extinction.

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Introduction

00:00 • 3min

The Scientific Understanding of Fossils and the Controversy of Extinction

02:51 • 7min

Debates on Evolution and Comparative Anatomy in the Late 18th Century

10:12 • 4min

Discovery of Extinct Species and Cuvier's Explanation

13:48 • 2min

Closing Message and Podcast Recommendations

15:50 • 2min

Ever wondered what French scientists, elephants, and a creature known as the 'Ohio animal' have to do with extinction? What role did French chemists play in discovering the composition of air and water? How were ancient theories concerning combustion replaced with the foundations of modern chemistry? All these questions are answered in the new bonus episode for Patreon supporters of the show! Episode 35, 'Science During the Revolutionary Era' is actually two bonus episodes. Part I focuses on Chemistry, and Part II focuses on Biology and Palaeontology. Both bonus episodes and hours worth of other exclusive content are now available for all Patreon community members.

This snippet of Part II examines the work of French naturalist Georges Cuvier and his discovery of extinction!

Part I: Chemistry

This episode explores the achievements of the famous French Scientist Antoine Lavoisier. It covers the discovery of oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen, as well as the role of oxygen in the combustion process. It also examines outdated scientific theories and the discoveries that air and water were not elements.

Part II: Life Sciences (Biology and Palaeontology)

This episode examines the early debates surrounding extinction and evolution. This includes the controversial theories and intriguing discoveries of several french naturalists, including Cuvier, Geoffroy, and Lamarck.

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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 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!

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