Great Scottish speeches - David Torrance

Some Great Scottish Speeches were the result of years of contemplation. Some flourished in heat of the moment. Whatever the background of the ideas expressed, the speeches not only provide a snapshot of their time, but express views that still resonate in Scotland today, whether you agree with the sentiments or not.

Encompassing speeches made by Scots or in Scotland, this carefully selected collection reveals the character of a nation. Themes of religion, independence and socialism cross paths with sporting encouragement, Irish Home Rule and Miss Jean Brodie.

Ranging from the legendary speech of the Caledonian chief Calgagus in 83AD right up to Alex Salmond's election victory in 2007, these are the speeches that created modern Scotland.

DAVID TORRANCE is an Edinburgh-based freelance writer, journalist, public relations consultant and broadcaster. He is a regular contributor to STVs Politics Now programme, writes obituaries for the Sunday Herald and historical comment for The Scotsman. Torrance has written six previous books and is also currently studying a part-time PhD in Political History at Queen Mary, University of London.

...what has not faded is the power of the written and spoken word - as this first-rate collection of Scottish speeches demonstrates.

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