The Jacobite Rising VI: The Battle of Culloden

Episode Resources & Member Links

Unlock the Full Uncut Episode

Join the Newsletter

Recommended Reading:

Culloden by Murray Pittock 

The 45 by Christopher Duffy

Episode Summary

Is the "Highland Charge" a romantic myth? In this edited episode of Prime and Load, we welcome back Dr. Aaron Johnston to deconstruct the final, bloody hours of the 1745 Jacobite Rising. While pop culture paints a picture of wild highlanders charging heroically into fire, the reality was a complex story of a "ticking clock," dwindling supplies, and a catastrophic breakdown in command

We trace the Jacobite army’s retreat through the bitter winter of 1746, the strategic importance of Inverness, and the high-stakes decision to stand on Dromozi Moor. This episode provides a vital overview of the Duke of Cumberland’s disciplined offensive and the failed night march to Nairn, which left the Jacobite forces exhausted on the morning of their most critical engagement

Looking for the full tactical breakdown? This edited version is a teaser for our deep-dive analysis. To hear the uncut discussion on administrative failures, the "lost" regiments of the North, and the debunking of the "Italian Coward" myth, join the Prime & Load! War Room.

Meet the Expert

Dr. Aaron Johnston: A leading military historian specializing in the Jacobite Rebellions. His research focuses on the tactical capabilities and social motivations of the 18th-century Highland armies

Episode Timestamps (Edited Version)

• [00:00] – Introduction: Stripping away the legends of Culloden
• [05:30] – The Ticking Clock: Why the Jacobites were running out of time and money
• [15:45] – British Offensive: Cumberland’s march and the defense of the River Spey
• [25:00] – Choosing the Field: Why the Jacobites chose Dromozi Moor over the River Nairn
• [40:15] – The Night March: The "breadcrumb trail" of a failed surprise attack
• 14.
• [55:30] – Deployment: Arming the Highlanders—musket, sword, and targe
• [1:10:00] – Final Hours: The reality of the charge and the battlefield casualties

Unlock the Full Uncut Experience

Our premium listeners get access to an additional 30+ minutes of exclusive content not found in this version, including:

• Logistical Failures: The sickness of John Murray of Broughton and how administrative collapse doomed the army
• The Battle of Little Ferry: A detailed l