
French Revolution & Napoleon (Grey History)
History isn't black and white, yet too often it's presented as such. Explore the ambiguities and nuances of the French Revolution.Support the show today: https://www.patreon.com/greyhistoryEver wondered how the French Revolution started with hope for liberty and equality and descended into the Reign of Terror? Curious as to how the French Revolution still influences your life today? Looking for your next long-form, detailed history podcast recommended by universities and loved by French Revolution and Napoleon enthusiasts? Then Grey History The French Revolution and Napoleon is the history podcast for you! In the first 12 episodes, we explore the origins of the French Revolution. Starting with French history in the late eighteenth century, the first two episodes examine the Estates of the Realm and the historic reigns of King Louis XIV and King Louis XV. We then dive into French involvement in the American Revolutionary War, and the profound impact this has on the history of France. Taking the time to contrast the experiences of contemporaries and the opinions of historians, we proceed to unpack the fall of the Old Regime (Ancien Régime), including the summoning of the Estates-General, the creation of the National Assembly (later the National Constituent Assembly), and the Tennis Court Oath. Finally, we dive into the dismissal of Jacques Necker and the series of events that triggered the Storming of the Bastille on 14 July 1789. Along the way, we routinely dive into contentious debates in the history of the French Revolution, before proceeding to examine the period of constitutional monarchy from 1789 to 1792. From Episodes 13 - 35, Grey History The French Revolution and Napoleon examines the workings of the National Assembly, the Constitution of 1791, and the first year of the Legislative Assembly. This includes contentious debates surrounding the Assembly's religious reforms, including the nationalisation of church property, the issuing of assignats, the closure of monastic orders, and the Civil Constitution of the Clergy. It also includes historic events such as the October Days, the Flight to Varennes, and the declaration of the Revolutionary War. As we unpack the ever-changing events of Paris during the revolutionary era, you'll not only hear from historians from across the ideological spectrum, as well as key participants. This includes Maximilien Robespierre, Georges Danton, Jean-Paul Marat, the Comte de Mirabeau, Abbé Sieyès, Jean-Sylvain Bailly, the Marquis de Lafayette, and of course, the French royals, King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette. We'll also examine the factional dynamics emerging in the revolution, including the Jacobins (Montagnards), Girondins (Brissotins), Feuillants, and others. Finally, we will discuss international reactions to the French Revolution, including Edmund Burke's responses as well as those of foreign monarchs. From Episode 36 onwards, we explore the fall of the monarchy on 10 August 1792, a gruesome and chaotic event that was ironically witnessed by the future French Emperor Napoléon Bonaparte. But, between the overthrow of King Louis XVI and the rise of the Napoleonic Empire a decade later, the history of France is one defined by turmoil, conspiracy, heartbreak, and bloodshed. From the September Massacres of 1792 to the Reign of Terror in 1793 and 1794, the French Revolution is an almost unbelievable tragedy of horror and crime. But, it's also an inspirational story of hope and heroism. Fighting for democratic principles, the French (and later Napoleonic) armies transformed world history forever, along with democratic societies. You absolutely don't want to miss out on the history of the French Revolution and the subsequent age of Napoleon!
Latest episodes

Jun 30, 2025 • 17min
1.93.1 Hills, Hedges, and Humble Clerics
Unpack a royalist's account on the importance of religion in the Vendée, and why the topography of the Vendée was so beneficial to the defending insurrectionists!
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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 Bonaparte 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 30, 2025 • 1h 4min
1.93 Vendée: Civil War (Recap)
The inferno ignites. Arguably the most divisive theatre of the French Revolution, it’s time to return to the west.
This episode is a repost of Episode 1.55 Civil War in the Vendée, exploring the dramatic outbreak of rebellion in March 1793. We’ll unpack the origins of the insurrection, its initial stages, and the many debates that still divide historians. What role did religion play? How significant were the nobles? And was this truly a popular uprising?
From simmering tensions to explosive violence, this episode lays the groundwork for one of the Revolution’s darkest chapters. In future episodes, we’ll trace the bloody rise and fall of the rebellion, and confront the horrific crimes against humanity that followed.
The Grey History Community
Help keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its supporters, and we need you! With an ad-free feed, a community discord, a reading club, and tonnes of exclusive bonus content, you're missing out! Do your part for as little as half a cup of coffee per episode! It's the best value on the internet, with the best people too!
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Make a one-off donation
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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 Bonaparte 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 21, 2025 • 36min
The People's Voice Part II
From abandoned palaces to Revolutionary executions, this Q&A dives into five gripping questions from the community!
Why didn’t Louis XVI flee during the October Days of 1789?
What became of Versailles after the royal family moved to Paris?
Why didn’t the Royal Navy intervene during the 1793 Siege of Dunkirk?
Were there more “polite” versions of Republican marriages and baptisms?
Why did the Jacobins bother with the show trials of 1793? What was the purpose behind prosecuting the Girondins and Marie Antoinette?
Submit Your Questions!
Keen to have your questions answered? Either post them on Patreon or submit a question in the community chat on Discord!
As always, thank you for your support of the show!
The Grey History Community
Help keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its supporters, and we need you! With an ad-free feed, a community discord, and tonnes of exclusive bonus content, you're missing out! Do your part for as little as half a cup of coffee per episode! It's the best value on the internet, with the best people too!
Join Now And Support the Show
Make a one-off donation
Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 1.89 "The Republic Strikes Back!" now! Available for all True Revolutionaries and above!
Contact Me
Send your questions, praise, and scorn here
Newsletter
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Advertising
Please contact sales@advertisecast.com if you would like to advertise on Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon.
All members of the Grey History Community have an ad-free version of the show. Support the show here.
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 Bonaparte 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 15, 2025 • 54min
1.92 Revolution & Total War with Dr David Bell
From war crimes and Terror to Napoleon and nationalism, unpack the fascinating dynamics of total war in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
This interview with Dr David Avrom Bell explores the changing nature of warfare, the impact of the Enlightenment on total war, and the importance of rhetoric in this consequential struggle. We also examine controversial debates, including allegations of genocide in the Vendée and whether "the Terror" ever truly existed.
The perfect conclusion to our deep dive on the War of the First Coalition in 1793 - this episode is unmissable!
Learn More
Davidavrombell.com
Princeton Profile
The Grey History Community
Help keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its supporters, and we need you! With an ad-free feed, a community discord, a reading club, and tonnes of exclusive bonus content, you're missing out! Do your part for as little as half a cup of coffee per episode! It's the best value on the internet, with the best people too!
Join Now And Support the Show
Make a one-off donation
Contact Me
Send your questions, praise, and scorn here
Newsletter
Sign Up for Free Bonus Episode
Follow on Social Media:
Facebook
Instagram
X
Advertising
Please contact sales@advertisecast.com if you would like to advertise on Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon.
All members of the Grey History Community have an ad-free version of the show. Support the show here.
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 Bonaparte 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 31, 2025 • 1h 3min
1.91 Lazare Carnot: Organiser of Victory
Scientist. Patriot. Engineer. Revolutionary. Explore the many faces of Lazare Carnot, the famed Organiser of Victory. Perhaps the most celebrated member of the Committee of Public Safety, this episode tracks his ascent to the heights of revolutionary government. From military prison to singing societies, prepare for an unusual career.
Sponsor: Lingopie
Get 55% off a Lingopie subscription to learn French and 11 other languages with movies and TV shows!
CLICK HERE
The Grey History Community
Help keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its supporters, and we need you! With an ad-free feed, a community discord, a reading club, and tonnes of exclusive bonus content, you're missing out! Do your part for as little as half a cup of coffee per episode! It's the best value on the internet, with the best people too!
Join Now And Support the Show
Make a one-off donation
Contact Me
Send your questions, praise, and scorn here
Newsletter
Sign Up for Free Bonus Episode
Follow on Social Media:
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X
Advertising
Please contact sales@advertisecast.com if you would like to advertise on Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon.
All members of the Grey History Community have an ad-free version of the show. Support the show here.
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 Bonaparte 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 19, 2025 • 25min
1.90.1 The Spanish Front: Questions & Answers
From Catalans to Wars of Independence, Michael Hamel is back to anwer listener questions on the war with Spain!
Learn More
The Roussillon Campaign of 1793-94: Spain’s Lost Opportunity – Age of Revolutions
War Studies Journal 2
The Grey History Community
Help keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its supporters, and we need you! With an ad-free feed, a community discord, a reading club, and tonnes of exclusive bonus content, you're missing out! Do your part for as little as half a cup of coffee per episode! It's the best value on the internet, with the best people too!
Join Now And Support the Show
Make a one-off donation
Disclaimer
The opinions expressed herein are those of the individual and do not reflect the official policy or position of the U.S. Army, the United States Military Academy, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 15, 2025 • 1h 12min
1.90 Spain & The War of the Pyrenees with Michael Hamel
From success to disaster, explore Spain's war effort with Major Michael Hamel. Unpack the state of the Spanish Empire prior to 1789, the outbreak of war, and why Hamel defends Spanish leaders who other historians condemn. A complete account of the Pyrenees front, enjoy this fantastic interview on an overlook conflict!
Sponsor: Lingopie
Get 55% off a Lingopie subscription to learn French and 11 other languages with movies and TV shows!
CLICK HERE
Learn More on the War of the Pyrenees
The Roussillon Campaign of 1793-94: Spain’s Lost Opportunity – Age of Revolutions
War Studies Journal 2
The Grey History Community
Help keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its supporters, and we need you! With an ad-free feed, a community discord, a reading club, and tonnes of exclusive bonus content, you're missing out! Do your part for as little as half a cup of coffee per episode! It's the best value on the internet, with the best people too!
Join Now And Support the Show
Make a one-off donation
Contact Me
Send your questions, praise, and scorn here
Newsletter
Sign Up for Free Bonus Episode
Follow on Social Media:
Facebook
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X
Advertising
Please contact sales@advertisecast.com if you would like to advertise on Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon.
All members of the Grey History Community have an ad-free version of the show. Support the show here.
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 Bonaparte 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!
Disclaimer
The opinions expressed herein are those of the individual and do not reflect the official policy or position of the U.S. Army, the United States Military Academy, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 1, 2025 • 1h 2min
1.89 The Republic Strikes Back!
Victories and triumphs! Surrounded, betrayed, and seemingly on the brink of collapse, the summer of 1793 was a dark era for the Republic. However, in a series of desperate battles, armies of citizen-soldiers defied the odds. Unpack the dramatic turning points of the War of the First Coalition — a story of blunders, brilliance, and battlefield miracles.
This episode examines the Battle of Hondschoote (1793), the Battle of Wattignies (1793), and the Second Battle of Wissembourg (1793).
Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 1.90 Spain & The War of the Pyrenees with Michael Hamel now! Available for all True Revolutionaries and above!
The Grey History Community
Help keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its supporters, and we need you! With an ad-free feed, a community discord, a reading club, and tonnes of exclusive bonus content, you're missing out! Do your part for as little as half a cup of coffee per episode! It's the best value on the internet, with the best people too!
Join Now And Support the Show
Make a one-off donation
Contact Me
Send your questions, praise, and scorn here
Newsletter
Sign Up for Free Bonus Episode
Follow on Social Media:
Facebook
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X
Advertising
Please contact sales@advertisecast.com if you would like to advertise on Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon.
All members of the Grey History Community have an ad-free version of the show. Support the show here.
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 Bonaparte 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 27, 2025 • 33min
The People's Voice Part I
Your Questions Answered! From the influence of Ancient Rome to using Terror for personal advantage, this Q&A episode unpacks a variety of fascinating topics!
Questions include:
1) Did the revolutionaries know of Ancient Roman attempts to control prices?
2) Was hoarding and speculation common? What was driving food shortages? Were shortages occurring across the Republic?
3) Did regular people use the Terror for self-interest and personal vendettas?
4) What powers did the high nobility have prior to the revolution?
Submit Your Questions!
Keen to have your questions answered? Either post them here, or submit a question in the community chat on Discord!
The Grey History Community
Help keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its supporters, and we need you! With an ad-free feed, a community discord, and tonnes of exclusive bonus content, you're missing out! Do your part for as little as half a cup of coffee per episode! It's the best value on the internet, with the best people too!
Join Now And Support the Show
Make a one-off donation
Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 1.89 "The Republic Strikes Back!" now! Available for all True Revolutionaries and above!
Contact Me
Send your questions, praise, and scorn here
Newsletter
Sign Up for Free Bonus Episode
Follow on Social Media:
Facebook
Instagram
X
Advertising
Please contact sales@advertisecast.com if you would like to advertise on Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon.
All members of the Grey History Community have an ad-free version of the show. Support the show here.
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 Bonaparte 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 17, 2025 • 1h 6min
1.88 Total War II: Leadership and Tactics
Blood and bayonets! Amidst war and revolution, the French Republic must rebuild its shattered officer corps and overhaul outdated tactics. From the rise of meritocracy to the birth of a bold new military doctrine, discover how revolutionary France redefined modern warfare and prepared an unbelievable comeback!Early AccessDon't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 1.89 "The Republic Strikes Back!" now! Available for all True Revolutionaries and above!Bonus Content1.88.1 Skirmishers: Light & LethalSmall units, big impact. Discover how untrained recruits became deadly assets on the battlefield, using speed, stealth, and surprise to disrupt traditional armies. From harassing enemy lines to shielding full-scale assaults, these troops helped redefine revolutionary warfare.Explainer VideosLine FormationsColumn FormationsThe Grey History CommunityHelp keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its supporters, and we need you! With an ad-free feed, a community discord, a reading club, and tonnes of exclusive bonus content, you're missing out! Do your part for as little as half a cup of coffee per episode! It's the best value on the internet, with the best people too!Join Now And Support the ShowMake a one-off donationContact MeSend your questions, praise, and scorn hereNewsletterSign Up for Free Bonus EpisodeFollow on Social Media:FacebookInstagramXAdvertisingPlease contact sales@advertisecast.com if you would like to advertise on Grey History: The French Revolution and Napoleon.All members of the Grey History Community have an ad-free version of the show. Support the show here.AboutGrey 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 Bonaparte 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices