
The Age of Napoleon Podcast
The Age of Napoleon is a history podcast about the life and career of Napoleon Bonaparte as well as the general context of Europe between the early eighteenth and early nineteenth century. It is about big trends and the grand sweep of history, as well as the smaller, individual stories that bring them to life.
Latest episodes

Apr 1, 2025 • 1h 16min
Episode 124: My Blood for the Emperor
In the summer of 1809, Napoleon crossed the Danube again to confront Archduke Charles and the Habsburg field army and avenge his defeat at Aspern-Essling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 1, 2025 • 1h 11min
Episode 123: Heroes and Rebels
Delve into the resilience of the Tyroleans as they defy French domination amidst the War of the Fifth Coalition. Discover the tactical brilliance of French and Austrian forces in Italy and Poland, showcasing the complexities of multi-front warfare. Experience the aftermath of Trafalgar, where the French navy struggles to reclaim Martinique against strategic challenges. The geopolitical landscape is rife with tensions as nations vie for power, opening a window into historical struggles that shaped the modern world.

Feb 1, 2025 • 58min
Episode 122: The Emperor Alone
Austria, 1809: Napoleon was stunned after the first defeat of his career at Aspern-Essling and the death of his best friend and closest confidant, Marshal Lannes. But all across the continent, the war raged on... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 1, 2025 • 1h 8min
Episode 121: The Red Danube
On May 21st, 1809, the Austrians attacked the Grande Armée at the towns of Aspern and Essling. The ensuing two days were the hardest test of Napoleon's career to date. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 1, 2024 • 1h 2min
Episode 120: More Terrible than Ever
In April 1809, the Austrians launched a surprise invasion of the Napoleonic Empire. Napoleon, however, had a clever plan to counterattack. The Bavarian troops rallied with courage against the Austrians, facing harsh conditions. Key battles along the Danube shifted momentum in favor of the French, showcasing Napoleon's strategic prowess. Despite early victories, significant challenges loomed as enemy forces threatened his advance on Vienna. The intricate dynamics of warfare and regional identity add depth to this thrilling historical narrative.

Nov 1, 2024 • 60min
Episode 119: Setting the World Aflame
French and British forces continue fighting in Spain. In Paris, Napoleon's frustrations with Talleyrand finally boil over as he prepares to face off against a renewed and reformed Habsburg army. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 1, 2024 • 1h 6min
Episode 118: The Hornets' Nest
After taking Madrid, Napoleon chased a British army into northwestern Spain. Meanwhile, behind the lines, Spanish guerrillas waged a brutal war against the occupiers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 1, 2024 • 1h
Episode 117: Impossible
The Spanish Patriots prepared to hold off Bonaparte in a rocky mountain pass, but they didn't count on the heroism of the Polish cavalry of Napoleon's Imperial Guard. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 9, 2024 • 1h 34min
Paris Games Special
I sat down with two fellow French history podcasters for a Paris Games-themed discussion of some of our favorite characters of 18th and 19th century French history. You can find Will's show, Grey History, at: https://greyhistory.com, and David's show, The Siècle, here: http://thesiecle.com/. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 1, 2024 • 1h 1min
Episode 116: Strike Hard
In early November 1808, French troops crossed the Ebro River in their second invasion of Spain, led by the Emperor himself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.