Kenny MacAskill – författare

The Political Martyrs memorial in Edinburgh looms large on the city's skyline but its history is relatively unknown. And that is not by accident. As Edinburgh's New Town was constructed, a narrative of kilts and loyalty was created for Scotland, with its radical history deliberately excluded. The French Revolution lit a spark in Scotland, inspiring radicals and working people alike, and uniting them in opposition to the King and his government. The oligarchy of landowners that ran Scotland was worried. Leading radicals like Thomas Muir and fellow political martyrs were later rounded up and transported to Botany Bay. But the radicals fought back and formed the United Scotsmen, seeking widespread political reform throughout the Union and prepared to use physical force in defence of their ideals and as social and economic hardship followed in Waterloo's wake, the flame of radicalism was further ignited. This is Scotland's Radical History.

Robert Burns The World O’er takes readers on an extraordinary journey through nearly 40 statues dedicated to Scotland’s beloved Bard scattered across the globe. From the bustling streets of New York to the quiet corners of Barre, Vermont, each statue serves as a testament to Burns’ enduring legacy and the profound impact of the Scottish diaspora.This captivating exploration delves into the stories behind these monuments, revealing who erected them and why. While some were commissioned by the wealthy, many were funded by ordinary people – remnants of the emigrant community that sought to preserve their heritage. As you uncover the tales of these statues, you’ll discover a rich tapestry of human experience, cultural pride and sometimes complex histories. Join the author on this odyssey of remembrance and celebration, where every statue tells a story and every story adds depth to the legacy of Robert Burns – an icon revered not just in Scotland, but around the world.