French Revolution & Napoleon (Grey History)

1.54 Its Treason Then!

Jun 7, 2023

This podcast explores the French Revolutionary War, including the entry of England and Holland, the French invasion of the Dutch Republic, and the devastating counter-attack by Austria and Prussia. It also discusses British concerns about French annexations, the tragic consequences of a printing error, and General Dumouriez's actions and betrayal during the revolution, leading to the emergence of civil war in France.

01:20:31

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The British entered the war due to the French threat to Belgium and their commercial interests.

General Dumouriez's betrayal intensified factional divisions and reinforced a culture of suspicion within the revolution.

Dumouriez's invasion of the Dutch Republic turned into a disastrous counterattack by the Austrians and Prussians, leading to chaos and a growing Belgian insurrection.

Deep dives

Reasons for British entry into the war

By January 1793, the British had multiple reasons to abandon their stance of neutrality and enter the war. The French occupation of Belgium posed a significant threat to British interests, and the possibility of its annexation was unacceptable. Additionally, the Dutch Republic was under threat, and the opening of the Shelt estuary by the French endangered British and Dutch commercial interests. France's policy of aiding revolutionaries and rebels abroad, as well as the Edict of Raternity, caused further concern in London. With news of King Louis XVI's execution, the British found a convenient pretext for war.

Introduction

4min

Predicting Peace: Chamberlain and Pitt's Misjudgments

5min

British Concerns and French Threats

16min

The Consequences of a Printing Error

2min

The British Decision to Declare War on France

18min

General de Morye's Actions in Belgium

9min

The Betrayal of Demoriae

22min

Impact of Demoria's Treason and the Emergence of Civil War

5min

The war expands and disaster strikes. This episode explores the entry of England and Holland into the Revolutionary War, as well as the French invasion of the Dutch Republic in February 1793. As Belgium begins to break, the Austrians and the Prussians unleash a devastating counter-attack, crippling the French military and causing chaos behind the lines. In the resulting disarray, General Dumouriez goes rogue. The consequences of his actions have a direct impact on the Reign of Terror.

Exclusive Bonus Content (Episode Extras)

1.54.1 Dutch Exiles and Dumouriez's Commissioners - Thanks but no thanks. This Episode Extra explores negotiations between Dutch exiles and the French government to ensure the mistakes of Belgium didn't repeat themselves. It also unpacks unexpectedly positive responses to Dumouriez's actions in Brussels.

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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! Enjoy the Revolutions podcast? You'll love this!

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