When Scotland Ruled the World

Book excerpt: In 1750, Scotland emerged from half a century of civil strife. Its parliament was subsumed by Westminster, and the English were vigilant for any sign of Jacobite rebellion. Despite this, Scotland was at the beginning of a period of resurgence that was to last two centuries. This fascinating look at of the Golden Age of Scottish history includes: the great names of the “democratic intellect,” including Adam Smith and David Hume; writers, such as Robert Burns, Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson; scientists and inventors, among them Watson and Watt; as well as engineers of the Empire; missionaries and explorers; and pioneers of surgery and medicine. An illuminating account of the outstanding achievements of this proud nation.