Podcast Summary: The Rest Is History - Episode 546: The French Revolution: The Monarchy Falls (Part 3)
Release Date: March 10, 2025
Hosts: Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland
Introduction
In Episode 546 of The Rest Is History, hosts Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland delve into the dramatic fall of the French monarchy during the French Revolution. This installment, titled "The Monarchy Falls (Part 3)," explores the pivotal moments leading to the abolition of the monarchy, the Battle of Valmy, and the intense political factionalism within the National Convention.
The Abolition of the Monarchy
The episode opens with a recounting of September 21, 1792, when the National Convention officially abolished the French monarchy. Dominic Sandbrook highlights the significance of this moment, stating:
Dominic Sandbrook [02:20]: "The monarchy is hereby abolished. So Dominic was yet another person shouting loudly, one of many in our ongoing history of the French Revolution."
Tom Holland adds a humorous touch, linking contemporary political figures to historical events:
Tom Holland [03:31]: "I think that Jeremy Corbyn, he would definitely be on the side of abolishing the monarchy had he been in the French Revolution."
The hosts emphasize the seismic impact of this decision not only on France but across Europe, marking the end of one of the oldest monarchies on the continent.
The Battle of Valmy
A central event discussed is the Battle of Valmy, a crucial military engagement that bolstered the revolutionary government's position. The battle took place just 140 miles from Paris, where French forces, under General Charles François Dumouriez and later reinforced by General Kellermann, faced the advancing Prussian army led by the Duke of Brunswick.
Dominic Sandbrook narrates the tension-filled preparations:
Dominic Sandbrook [04:40]: "The streets are packed with volunteers who are streaming towards the gates of the city. To the front, people are p down the grills of churches. They're digging up their coffins to use as lead for musket shot."
The battle itself is portrayed as a turning point where, despite initial setbacks, the French forces manage to halt the Prussian advance, leading to unexpected victories that energized the revolutionary zeal.
Political Factionalism in the National Convention
Post-Valmy, the focus shifts to the political landscape within the National Convention. The Convention is portrayed as a battleground for three main factions:
- Girondins: Representing provincial interests and intellectual elites.
- Mountagnards (Montagnards): Radical Parisian revolutionaries advocating for populist policies.
- The Marsh (La Plaine): Centrist members who often sway between the two extremes.
Tom Holland reflects on the emerging political tensions:
Tom Holland [25:35]: "This is the first manifestation of it, that the young are inclined to back more radical solutions on the left."
Dominic Sandbrook further discusses the deepening divisions and the relentless push-pull dynamics between the Girondins and the Montagnards, setting the stage for impending conflicts.
The Rise of the Montagnards
The Montagnards, led by prominent figures like Robespierre, Danton, and Marat, begin to assert their dominance within the Convention. They advocate for more extreme measures to preserve the revolution, often clashing with the more moderate Girondins.
A notable moment includes a fiery speech by Saint-Just, a young and fervent Montagnard:
Dominic Sandbrook [57:33]: "I pronounce this fatal truth with regret. But Louis must die because the homeland must live."
This declaration underscores the uncompromising stance of the Montagnards against the monarchy and sets the foundation for the trial of Louis Capet.
The Trial of Louis Capet Pending
The episode culminates with the mounting pressure to prosecute Louis Capet, the former king, as a traitor to the revolution. The discovery of confidential documents by Monsieur Roland further incriminates Louis, sealing his fate.
Dominic Sandbrook summarizes the gravity of the situation:
Dominic Sandbrook [54:26]: "If you follow nature, then you can't do anything wrong, no matter where it leads."
The hosts highlight the constitutional debates surrounding the trial and the inevitable outcome, hinting at the forthcoming dramatic conclusion in the next episode.
Conclusion and Preview
Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland wrap up the episode by setting the stage for the climax of this historical narrative—the trial and execution of Louis Capet. They tease the intense political maneuvering and personal vendettas that will unfold, promising listeners a gripping continuation of the French Revolution's dramatic transformation.
Dominic Sandbrook [58:01]: "It is one of the two or three most famous speeches of the entire revolution... It seems to serve as a kind of departure point, as a punctuation point in kind of France's constitutional journey."
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This episode masterfully intertwines historical facts with engaging dialogue, providing a comprehensive overview of the critical developments that led to the fall of the French monarchy and the rise of radical revolutionary factions. Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland offer insightful analysis, enriched with humor and notable quotes, making complex historical events accessible and captivating for all audiences.