The Age of Napoleon Podcast Episode 28: The Liberation of Lombardy
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Jun 19, 2018 Napoleon's conquest of Lombardy divides locals, as some radicals support the revolution while others are suspicious. Napoleon demands tribute and angers an old friend. Officers invest in jewel-encrusted watches. The podcast explores the contradiction between French ideals and realities of war and occupation. It also discusses the introduction of meritocracy and the impact of the Napoleonic era.
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Victory Grants Political Leverage
- Napoleon learned that battlefield success brought fame and financial independence from the Directory.
- Victory let him keep his army intact and leverage political power back in Paris.
Patriots Return To Ignite Milan
- Milan's exiled Patriots returned with radical literature and organization skills from France.
- Carlos Alvedor founded the People's Club and energized mass meetings and republican symbols.
Liberation Rhetoric Paired With Requisition
- Napoleon framed French conquest as fraternal liberation while simultaneously imposing heavy financial levies.
- The proclamation demanded two million francs from Austrian Lombardy to fund the army.