In 1799 Napoleon Bonaparte abandoned an army, and abandoned a government, launching a coup which would cement his place as a pivotal figure in history. Dr Graeme Callister returns to talk us through the political chaos, key figures, and strategic planning behind the event. We also discuss the revolutionary context, the role of military and political players, and the implications for French history.

Buy Graeme's books at: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Dr-Graeme-Callister/a/4546

Support the show at: https://www.patreon.com/thenapoleonicwarspod

Chapters

00:00 The Rise of Napoleon: A Coup in 1799

03:01 Napoleon's Return from Egypt: A Savior or a Coward?

06:10 The State of the Directory: A Failing Government

08:58 The Impact of Personal Relationships on Political Decisions

11:57 The Paranoia of French Politics: A Legacy of the Terror

15:01 Key Figures in the Coup: Allies and Influencers

17:49 The Role of the Military in Political Change

21:14 The Future of France: Napoleon's Vision and Ambitions

28:03 Key Figures in the Coup

32:09 Political Dynamics and Military Influence

35:10 Historical Parallels: The English Civil War

39:00 Napoleon's Rise: From Second Choice to Leader

50:14 The Coup Plan: Constitutional Manipulation

54:32 Conclusion and Future Discussions

Keywords

Napoleon Bonaparte, French Revolution, Brumaire Coup, French politics, military strategy, 1799, revolutionary France, political upheaval