The Napoleonic Wars Podcast

The Eve of New Orleans: War of 1812

The Napoleonic Wars Podcast

Show Notes

The Battle of New Orleans is a battle that the British love to forget. It is also the battle that forged a future president in the form of Andrew Jackson. Dr Joseph Stoltz joins us to talk about the battle, its commanders, why Pakenham decided the attack where he did, the myths that have sprung up around the battle, and whether this expedition was doomed from the start. Buy Joseph's book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DFP454Q?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback

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

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Battle of New Orleans 01:02 Historical context and British strategic goals 02:53 Dr. Joseph Stultz's expertise and background 04:38 Geography and terrain of New Orleans 11:13 British plans and logistical challenges 23:24 Commanders and leadership of Jackson and Pakenham 36:35 American and British troop composition and morale 42:54 Pre-battle preparations and reconnaissance 45:18 Night attack and initial engagements 48:38 Artillery duel and battlefield tactics 53:27 The main battle and its aftermath 01:00:55 Leadership, morale, and the legacy of the battle

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