The Rest Is History 243. Trafalgar: A World at War (Part 1)
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Oct 17, 2022 Explore the Battle of Trafalgar, a defining moment of the 19th century that solidified British naval supremacy. Discover the advanced technology that revolutionized warfare and how Horatio Nelson became a national hero. The discussion also touches on the hefty costs of maintaining the Royal Navy and the evolution of nautical phrases like 'slush fund.' Leadership styles in the Royal Navy are examined, highlighting the aggressive tactics that played a crucial role in the battle's outcome.
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Heart of Oak
- Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook open the podcast with "Heart of Oak", a Royal Navy anthem.
- Written in 1759 after the Battle of Quiberon Bay, it reflects the navy's pride and fighting spirit.
Trafalgar's Impact
- Trafalgar's decisiveness is debated; some argue it didn't significantly alter the Napoleonic Wars.
- However, it arguably shaped the 19th-century imperial balance of power, ensuring British dominance.
Existential Threat
- Britain and France have fought numerous wars since the 1690s, increasingly becoming global conflicts.
- Napoleon's ruthlessness and resourcefulness posed an existential threat to Britain unlike any prior French regime.
