This week on Prime & Load! we’re joined by Maj. Gen. Jason Bohm, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.), author of Washington’s Marines. Together we explore the origins of the Continental Marines and their vital role in America’s fight for independence.From the early recruitment of Marines and their first amphibious assault in the Bahamas to their actions at Trenton and Princeton, Maj. Gen. Bohm helps uncover how these early warriors shaped America’s identity as a maritime nation. We also discuss George Washington’s complicated relationship with the Marines, the role of naval infantry in 18th-century warfare, and how John Paul Jones used Marines to strike directly at the English coast.Whether you’re a student of the American Revolution or a proud member of the Corps, this episode dives deep into the legacy of the first Marines and the origins of U.S. amphibious warfare.Washington's Marines: The Origin of the Corps and the American RevolutionBy Maj. Gen. Jason Bohm, USMC Ret.Text the show! Support the showJoin our Newsletter! Follow is on X General Recommended Reading The Military Experience in the Age of Reason, By Christopher Duffy Infantry in Battle 1733-1783, By Alexander Burns *All materials are affiliated links that earn the show commission. Using these links helps support the podcast. Thank you.
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1:20:40
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1:20:40
Prime & Spook!
It’s Halloween on Prime & Load! — and we’re diving into the darker side of 18th-century warfare. From French soldiers sent to hunt monsters in the countryside, to Eastern European patrols investigating reports of vampires, to Hessians in America spotting UFOs, these are the stranger campaigns may never read about in the history books.In this lighthearted but historically grounded special, we explore the real primary sources behind these eerie tales and what they reveal about the fears, folklore, and imagination of the 18th century. Were these stories born from superstition — or something else entirely?Grab your lantern and musket, and join us for a Halloween march through the uncanny world of military legend. And don’t forget — share this episode with a friend (if they’re brave enough to listen after dark).Text the show! Support the showJoin our Newsletter! Follow is on X General Recommended Reading The Military Experience in the Age of Reason, By Christopher Duffy Infantry in Battle 1733-1783, By Alexander Burns *All materials are affiliated links that earn the show commission. Using these links helps support the podcast. Thank you.
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1:08:42
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1:08:42
Rifles, Riflemen, and Early American Identity With Dr. John Bradstreet Weaver
How did a European hunting weapon become a symbol of American independence? In this episode of Prime & Load!, we sit down with Dr. John Bradstreet Weaver to explore the story of early rifles in America—from their origins in Europe to their transformation on the Pennsylvania frontier.We discuss how rifles were built and used in the colonies, their role in the frontier warfare, and how Continental Army used riflemen to win independence. Dr. Weaver explains the strengths and limitations of rifle-armed troops, the creation of America’s first specialized rifle units, and how this unique weapon helped shape both the battlefield and the American identity.Referenced MaterialsRifles and Riflemen: Material Culture, Violence, and Early American Identity, 1720 -- 1820, By Dr. John Bradstreet WeaverHessians: German Soldiers in the American Revolutionary Warby Friederike BaerText the show! Support the showJoin our Newsletter! Follow is on X General Recommended Reading The Military Experience in the Age of Reason, By Christopher Duffy Infantry in Battle 1733-1783, By Alexander Burns *All materials are affiliated links that earn the show commission. Using these links helps support the podcast. Thank you.
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1:12:02
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1:12:02
Top Commanders Bracket: Grand Finale
Its been a long time coming but we are proud to announce the Prime & Load Top Commander of the 18th Century! Text the show! Support the showJoin our Newsletter! Follow is on X General Recommended Reading The Military Experience in the Age of Reason, By Christopher Duffy Infantry in Battle 1733-1783, By Alexander Burns *All materials are affiliated links that earn the show commission. Using these links helps support the podcast. Thank you.
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19:08
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19:08
The Battle of Soor, Fredrick's Near Defeat
On the morning of September 30, 1745, Frederick the Great faced one of the most perilous moments of his career. The Prussian army, just 22,000 strong, awoke in its Bohemian camp to find Austrian guns positioned on the heights above them — a force twice their size, ready to strike. What followed was a desperate battle of improvisation, aggression, and survival.In this episode of Prime & Load!, we explore how Frederick the Great and the Prussian army clawed their way out of near disaster at the Battle of Soor, turning a potential rout into one of the most remarkable recoveries of the War of the Austrian Succession. We break down the key tactical decisions, the mistakes that nearly doomed him, and the leadership that defined his legend.If you enjoy this episode, text or email us your thoughts — and share it with a friend who loves 18th-century warfare.Text the show! Asking listeners to share, subscribe, and sign up for our email list. Support the showJoin our Newsletter! Follow is on X General Recommended Reading The Military Experience in the Age of Reason, By Christopher Duffy Infantry in Battle 1733-1783, By Alexander Burns *All materials are affiliated links that earn the show commission. Using these links helps support the podcast. Thank you.
Welcome to the Prime & Load Podcast!This podcast is dedicated to exploring the pivotal wars, battles, strategies, and figures that shaped the 18th century. From the rise of powerful empires to the dramatic shifts in military tactics, we delve into the stories behind the soldiers, commanders, and innovations that altered the course of history. Whether you’re a military history buff or just curious about this transformative period, we’ll guide you through the battles, conflicts, and the evolution of warfare that defined an era.
Österreich