With the revolution paralysed by factional feuds, the people of Paris moved to break the deadlock. This episode explores the weeks immediately preceding the Purge of the Girondins, including how Brissot and his allies rallied support across the country. It also examines the differing opinions of historians in relation to the actions of the Girondins in early 1793. With foreign plots and rumblings of civil war, there's plenty to unpack!

Exclusive Episode Extras (Bonus Content)
1. The seditious activities of Hébert and Varlet

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 (Twitter)

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 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!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1.59 The Purge of the Girondins Part I

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/greyhistory

Ever 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!

Society & Culture

Personal Journals

History

Philosophy

Places & Travel

Documentary

Toulon's history is like no other. Defined by violence and contradictions, the presence of the mighty naval arsenal shaped every aspect of Toulon. This episode explores the town's history, it's struggles, and it's numerous deviations from the norm.

Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 71 "Toulon III: Terror or Treason!" 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
Instagram
X (Twitter)

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

1.70 Toulon II: A Harbour of Discontent

Toulon turns to treason. Placing its hopes in the First Coalition, the French rebels found an alliance crippled by mistrust and division. With the allies focused on their own self-interests, the war with France was often a secondary consideration compared to other territorial or commercial gains.
This episode explore the dysfunctions of the First Coalition. Firstly, in unpacks Anglo-Spanish relations in the wake of the Nootka Crisis, and how naval cooperation between the two nations was far from effective. Secondly, it also examines the Second Partition of Poland, the Bavarian Exchange, and how relations between Russia, Prussia and Austria paralyzed the alliance in late 1792 and 1793.

Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 70 "Toulon II: A Harbour of Discontent" 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
Instagram
X (Twitter)

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

1.69 Toulon I: The Flimsy Coalition and the Second Partition of Poland

Where was Napoleon prior to the Siege of Toulon? How had the revolution impacted his career and his native home of Corsica? What were Napoleon's experiences of the social schisms which gripped revolutionary France? All of this, and more, is explored in this fantastic episode with the Age of Napoleon podcast.

Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 69 "Toulon: The Flimsy Coalition and the Second Partition of Poland" 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
Instagram
X (Twitter)

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

Joint Episode: Young Napoleon And Divided France with The Age of Napoleon

“To arms, Frenchmen, to arms!”. As Marseille rallied the country to revolt, the great port city achieved stunning success. Angered by the purging of the Girondins, and driven by its own internal divisions, Marseille marched on Paris to overthrow the Jacobin tyranny.
Yet, despite “liberating” Avignon in July 1793, setbacks soon become insurmountable. Forced into a corner, Marseille and nearby Toulon opened negotiations with the British. Terror in Marseille was sure to follow.

Episode Extras
1.68.1 The Terror in Marseille
Explore the fascinating characteristics of Marseille’s Terror! How did Marseille's experience differ to that of other federalist cities? What was the background of those killed? Were the proceedings a mockery of justice?
1.68.2 Jacobin Federalism
How was it that Marseille’s Jacobins could be accused of federalism? This episode extra explores this unexpected accusation, as well as links to future blueprints for totalitarian one-party regimes!

Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 69 "Toulon: The Flimsy Coalition and the Second Partition of Poland" 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
Instagram
X (Twitter)

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

1.68 Marseille: Fight and Flight

With the bloodshed of Lyon's Terror mired in controversy, there's no shortage of grey to explore! Examine what motivated Collot d'Herbois to embrace bloody repression. Learn how the Committee of Public Safety responded to his divisive actions. Who is responsible for the excesses in the city, and why do historians bitterly disagree? These are just some of the ambiguities we'll unpack in this bonus episode for community members!
Listen Now

The Grey History Community
Help keep Grey History on the air! Every revolution needs its supporters, and we need you! Enjoy an ad-free feed, a community chatroom, and tonnes of exclusive bonus content! Don't miss 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

Early Access
Don't wait! Support the show and listen to Episode 68 "Marseille: Fight and Flight" 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 (Twitter)

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

1.59 The Purge of the Girondins Part I

Download our free app to listen on your phone