Intelligence Squared Archive: Napoleon the Great? With Andrew Roberts, Adam Zamoyski and Jeremy Paxman
4 snips
Oct 21, 2024 
In a spirited debate, historians Andrew Roberts and Adam Zamoyski discuss how to remember Napoleon Bonaparte. Andrew Roberts, a distinguished historian known for his insights on Napoleonic history, and Adam Zamoyski, a best-selling author on French history, challenge each other's perspectives. They explore Napoleon's military genius versus his failures, his legislative achievements like the Code Napoleon, and his ambitions for European unity. The conversation also delves into his complex human legacy, provoking thoughts on how history shapes our understanding of great leaders.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Napoleon's Controversial Actions
- Jeremy Paxman lists Napoleon's key actions, including leading France to war, declaring himself emperor, nationalizing resources, and establishing a secret police.
- Paxman also mentions Napoleon's lesser-known contributions, such as the street numbering system with odd and even numbers on opposite sides.
Napoleon as France's Savior
- Andrew Roberts argues that Napoleon saved France from the chaos of the revolution, citing Adam Zamoyski's book, Terror.
- Roberts highlights Napoleon's achievements, like implementing the Code Napoleon, creating Parisian landmarks, and stabilizing the French economy.
Napoleon's Humor and the Wars He Started
- Roberts emphasizes Napoleon's humor, recounting an anecdote about an escaped lunatic professing love for the Empress.
- Roberts also refutes the idea of Napoleon as a warmonger, claiming he started only two of the nine wars he was involved in.
