Episode 164 - The Malet Conspiracy, an elaborate lie that almost toppled Napoleon’s Empire, with special guest Graeme Callister

During Napoleon’s catastrophic retreat from Russia, another crisis nearly brought down his empire from within. In October 1812, while Napoleon was deep inside Russia, General Malet launched one of the boldest coup attempts in French history—the Malet Conspiracy. Armed with forged documents announcing Napoleon’s death, Malet deceived Paris officials, freed imprisoned generals, arrested senior government figures, and for a few dramatic hours came dangerously close to overthrowing the French Empire.

How could a single general, with forged papers and incredible nerve, nearly topple Napoleon’s regime? Why did so many officials believe him? And what did this shocking conspiracy reveal about the fragility of Napoleon’s rule at the height of his power?

In this episode, special guest and author Graeme Callister will break down the Malet Conspiracy of 1812, the men behind the coup, Napoleon’s furious reaction when he learned the news, and why this little-known event exposed serious weaknesses inside the Napoleonic Empire.

If you enjoy deep dives into Napoleon, his marshals, and the dramatic political and military history of the Napoleonic Wars, subscribe for more weekly episodes.

X/Twitter: @GraemeCallister, @andnapoleon

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