Mar 1, 2026 · 58 min
Chris Sloan is joined by Josh Provan to explore more about the Marathas, untold stories from their second war with the British and the rise of the maverick Maharajah Holkar amidst the end of an Empire and the rise of another. These were turbulent times for India, as we unpick here. This episode covers: A deep dive into the Second Anglo-Maratha War, including the complex relationships and internal disputes among the Maratha confederacy’s rulers. Insightful exploration of Yashwantrao Holkar’s role—his background, military strategies, timing, and impact on the course of the conflict. Detailed discussion of Maratha military traditions, especially their reliance on cavalry, how this shaped their campaigns, and comparisons to other regional forces. Examination of the broader societal context: the lives of ordinary people under Maratha rule and British expansion, including the economic and social consequences of prolonged warfare. Critical analysis of historiography and perspectives, challenging the myth of inevitable British victory and illuminating nuances of alliance, resistance, and early hints of Indian nationalism. Help us produce more episodes by supporting the Napoleonic Quarterly on Patreon: patreon.com/napoleonicquarterly