We delve into the historical context of the British defence during the early 19th century, focusing on the Fencibles, a unique military formation. The discussion highlights the origins, roles, and significance of the Fensibles in Scotland, their impact on British identity, and the complexities of soldiering during this period.

Rory Butcher, PhD candidate at the University of Leeds, provides insights into how the Fencibles were formed as a response to military needs and how they navigated issues of loyalty, identity, and service.

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

Find out more on Rory's work at: https://x.com/RMB_History

Chapters (Timings Approximate)

00:00 The Context of the British Defence

08:53 Understanding the Fencibles

17:46 The Role and Responsibilities of the Fencibles

25:01 Cultural Impact and Legacy of the Fencibles

35:32 Regimental Justice and Discipline

38:46 Desertion and Its Implications

41:14 The Nature of Soldiering Contracts

46:07 Professionalism in the Army

50:51 British Identity and the Fencibles

55:45 The Complexity of Military Identity

Keywords

British Defence, Fencibles, Scottish History, Napoleonic Wars, Military History, Home Defence, British Identity, Soldiering, 18th Century, Jacobite Rebellion

In our first episode of this new series, Dr John McAleer and host Dr Zack White delve into the history and significance of the East India Company, exploring its origins, its role in the British Empire, and its impact on India and the world. We discuss the complexities of trade, competition, and the transition from a mercantile enterprise to a military power, culminating in the pivotal events leading to the Battle of Plassey.

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

Takeaways

The East India Company was a major player in global trade.

It significantly impacted the lives of millions across continents.

The company laid the foundations for the British Empire in India.

Understanding the East India Company is crucial for grasping Britain's multicultural society.

The company's rise was not inevitable; it faced many challenges.

The Mughal Empire was a sophisticated political entity during the company's early years.

European rivalries influenced the dynamics of trade in India.

The East India Company transitioned from trade to military power in the 18th century.

The company became a state in disguise, exerting political control.

The Battle of Plassey marked a turning point in the company's history.

Chapters (timings approximate)

00:00 The Rise of the East India Company

11:03 Understanding the Impact of Imperialism

21:00 Navigating Competition in the Indian Ocean

29:51 Cultural Perceptions and Misunderstandings

31:44 The East India Company: A Historical Perspective

35:46 Understanding the Mughal Empire's Influence

40:33 European Rivalries and Diplomatic Maneuvers

45:39 The Tenuous Position of the English Company

49:49 Transition to Military Power

54:38 Proxy Wars and Political Intrigues

59:44 The Metamorphosis of the East India Company

KEYWORDS

East India Company, British Empire, imperialism, history, trade, globalization, colonialism, Mughal Empire, military history, 18th century

What was a mutiny? Why did they matter? And once you started mutinying against your officers, how did you try to ensure that you weren't executed for your troubles?

Dr Callum Easton sits down with our very own Zack White to discuss mutinies in the Royal Navy and the East India Company Army as they compare and contrast the language, aims and management of these seditious acts.

Buy Callum's book at: https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-98840-0?source=shoppingads&locale=en-gb&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=18594397130&gbraid=0AAAAADu685NMss3J-EAb3lpHn8W_5Vewg&gclid=CjwKCAiA3L_JBhAlEiwAlcWO5xKSiyBlZglKfhzAiVZjaxCo3gkrLjt1QW0v0utISfpk5P9kFpVPtBoChQUQAvD_BwE

Support our work at: https://www.patreon.com/cw/thenapoleonicwarspod