Could You Survive as a Sharpshooter in the Napoleonic Wars?

f you think you could cut it as a crack shot in the Duke of Wellington's 95th Rifles, then step back in time with Survive History as we delve into the harrowing world of Napoleonic warfare. In our latest episode, "Could You Survive as a Rifleman in the Napoleonic Wars?", we immerse ourselves in the story of the 95th Rifles, joining a dedicated reenactment group to experience the life of a rifleman in the Duke of Wellington's army. Many have become familiar with their story through the exploits of the fictional Richard Sharpe, but the real accounts of the Rifles are every bit as gripping.

Filmed at the Chiltern Open Air Museum, Louee will attempt to earn the legendary green jacket of the 95th Rifles by exploring every aspect of the unit's history. Discover the meticulous recruitment process and training for Rifles recruits, the deadly precision of the Baker rifle, and why these sharpshooters were so feared by the French on the battlefield. From the gruelling conditions and long marches of campaign life to the brutal realities of the Peninsular War, we uncover the challenges faced by the men of the Light Division fighting in Spain and Portugal. We follow the regiment to the iconic Battle of Waterloo, where the 95th Rifles fought fiercely to defend the farm at La Haye Sainte. Join us as we assess the odds of survival in one of history's most legendary units.

Thanks again to the 2nd Battalion 95th Rifles and 45eme Infanterie Regiment de Ligne for making this episode possible, and to the Chiltern Open Air Museum for hosting us.

#militaryhistory #napoleonicwars #history
00:00 Introduction
02:24 Origins of the Rifles
04:49 Battlefield tactics
08:48 The Baker Rifle
12:46 Skirmishing in action
15:38 Recruitment and training
17:27 Plunket's legendary shot
19:03 Strict rules and regulations
21:32 Rifles officers
29:06 Life on campaign
33:51 Fighting the French
39:47 Battle of Waterloo
44:54 Could you survive?