The Battle of Valmy (Epic History)

1792. The Age of Revolution has arrived in Europe! In France, the old order has been overthrown and the principles of liberty and equality are inspiring the people.

But France's neighbours are alarmed by the French Revolution and concerned that these radical ideals will spread. Conflict is inevitable, and by 1792 France is at war with the kingdoms of Austria and Prussia.

When these coalition forces march into France that summer, they feel confident of defeating a French army has been thrown into disarray by the revolution, with new, inexperienced officers and untested citizen recruits. But when the two sides face off at Valmy, the French must make a stand - the fate of their revolution hangs in the balance.



The fighting here, at Valmy, was the nail in the coffin for the monarchy in France at that time, where it was abolished on news of the army's victory (holding off the Prussians). Hard times and conflict can lead to political changes, but we must be mindful of who is steering the ship when faced with crises today. It's the mechanisms of action explained in the clip that people in modern times should find instructive - to be extremely wary of what's being decided behind closed doors, and the influence of outside forces, real or imagined, on domestic affairs.

[Posted at the SpookyWeather2 blog, June 5, 2025.]