They did not Defeat the Munros, who were know as Monross' during the Time of the Laird of the Isles the Earl of Ross! You really hate Ross' don't you! Surprised you even said the name you Bigot!
Prestonpans, is there any other historical battlefields that have been demolished with roads and motorways? Did enjoy the post on the skirmish with the local lord and militia around tranent. Originally from ormiston and never knew anything about it
Thanks for another great insight in Scottish history. I liked your summation at the end. My Dad put it eloquently: " Get two Scotsmen you have a conversation, get three and you have a fight."
I was not very academic at School but I only wished that the Lessons were given in such similar way in which you deliver them, lessons would have been so much enjoyable and perhaps some might have stuck.
Another traitor in traitor land. Yer no Scottish if ye left Scotland to live in the land of traitors, traitor. True Scots stay in Scotland not leave it
The history of the Scottish clans is fascinating. But I never realised how complex the political interplay of the clans was until I watched your videos.
Intertribal warfare, negotiations, treaties are all part of any people with clans. I'm Indigenous to North America, and my people have 7 clans. Add to that the long rivalries between my people, the Cherokee, and our neighbors in all directions - Meherrin, Tuscarora, Shawnee (and these 3 all Iroquoian like us), Muskoki (our greatest enemies), Chicksaw, Appalachi (the Appalachian Mts are named after them), Euchi... well, you can imagine the levels intricacies involved in trying to maintain a balance of power, negotiate alliances or at least hold off further hostilities, and arrange treaties to release hostages/POWs and uphold boundaries or move them to settle the peace. To this day, some of those old rivalries show their faces... and while most of the time done in fun, sometimes it's not fun at all or in a good way. People always comment - disparagingly - on how often we Natives fought each other and yet seem to forget that the clans of Scotland fought each other just as often and as brutally, including taking heads, scalps, and other body parts as trophies. In both cases, our clans'/tribes mutual refusal to work together resulted in being conquered and subjected to genocide, oppression, enslavement, and loss of culture. The fact that we're still here is testament to the grace and love of the Creator as well as the strength and fire of our spirits, but we've often made it harder for ourselves than it should have been over the years. While I doubt that my people will ever be able to truly be sovereign, it is my hope that Scotland soon reclaims its freedom from the UK, and this time may the clans all work together for the better of all.
@@allisonshaw9341 Please forgive me as I know very little history on the Indigenous people of America but sounds akin to walking over eggshells. Your absolutely right, people seem to have a selective memory when it comes to history and cherry pick the parts they want to suit an agenda. All of Europe's history is steeped in bloodshed and bitter feuding, it makes me mad that this often gets forgotten, but the history of indigenous peoples is put under the microscope in this regard. I do find it strange how tribalism can run so deep within humans we are so willing to fight amongst ourselves that we don't see the larger and more dangerous threats. Same here Scotland would be far better without the UK the house of Commons really does have no place in deciding what Scotland can and can't do. And I hope that you reclaim the lands stolen from you, and all the Indigenous clans find common ground, after all nothing scares governments more than solidarity.
It was the Laird of the Isles the Earl of Ross, this guy won't even tell you the mons Full Name, so how could you ever have the context of what really happened!
This telling of Scottish history is phenomenal. Without the use of any dramatic graphics or background music Bruce is able to deliver this story in an absolutely riveting manner. Not only going so far as to explain the larger picture of the politics and background at play, but instilling a sense of personal presence for the viewer by describing how any random figure in those armies must have felt. A truly gifted teacher, and an expert in the all too rare art of story telling. Amazing work.
Agree to you both! This man has such a wonderful gift of communication that I have become so inspired and am currently learning gaelic as a result. Sláinte!
Hi I'm yes...dare I say it an American Scott from Clan MacKay...Found family history of my 5th gen Grandfather John Mckee was there and never came over to the American states in 1795. Says he was there to defend his land and property. I watch your videos to gain an understanding of my family history. You bring that to me. Thank you so much. Good or bad I can take it. Im sure my Clan has done some good for Scotland but still learning. Any history lessons on them would be priceless. Thanks again and keep the history tube going.
History is never easy to explain, people use to think that things are plain and tend to forget that medieval fellows were as complicated as ourselves or even more. Great video Bruce, you should be teaching History at schools, you're amazing telling stories 🤗
@@luciusquinctiuscincinnatus6627 I’m sorry? My parents and grandparent and great grandparents are my Scottish roots! And I am a Canadian who is Scottish! Seriously??????? 🤯🤬🤦♀️❤️🏴🇨🇦
I’m happy you film this in different locations and in person. As an American I’m not familiar with the geography of the British isles and being able to see the rolling green hills really helps me picture historical moments.
Another joy to watch and hear, Bruce. You have a lovely light, humorous touch that keeps up the interest, and filming at the locations where the events happened brings it all to life. Thanks for this.
Bruce man, done it again! What a topic! Just getting better and better man. Monday I come off for the summer and will be back to studying just scottish history. Can't wait to sit through the playlists you've put together and pic new topics to look at. Honestly Bruce thanks man you've genuinely opened up so many new topics to scottish history!
Bruce; Even in today's world, nothing is simple... In fact it is getting more complicated everyday. But keep pumping out these informational videos and we'll all agree to watch.
Thank you for expanding on Scottish history in a way that isn't patronizing. You cut through the harl quite nicely. Looking forward to your next lesson - don't change anything!
Though I have no ancestral connection to Scotland, I do value the universal questions that history raises. I recently found your channel. You’re an excellent teacher. Thank you.
A great video, I live about 5 minutes down the road from Harlaw, and it’s amazing how little the locals know about their history, some of my friends didn’t even know the monument was there.
Wow. Just... Ouch. I love the way you managed to make clear the complexity of an absolute mess. You actually suggest there is a reasoned actual history and not just the jingoistic claims of absolutism and impossible glories. Very much glad I stumbled on this, and very much looking forward to what else you have!
Another great Video Bruce, Thank You for taking the time to make these. You're right about the elephant it crushes the political voice of Scotland, N.I and Wales combined. Your vids are opening my eyes to more places to visit in Scotland.
As an Alexander whose family came to USA from Ulster ( Northern Ireland) and from Scotland before that.. I believe I have found a very wonderful channel here on TH-cam. Thank you for the educational information. Grateful.
Excellent video ma chara. I'm a massive UFC fan and two Scottish fighters are fighting tonight, Paul Craig and Joanne Calderwood. Paul Craig has the opportunity tonight to represent Scotland and to make Scottish combat sports into the elite level. Craig is a school teacher in Scotland who teaches children, very interesting humble man and a big fan. Just letting you know because I am supporting my fellow Celt brother.
I'm glad you included the political situation regarding Harlaw, it's been painted for so long to be a clan battle, when in reality it appears to be much more feudal. Modern perception would have you believe Harlaw would have looked like something from the jacobite era, with kilts and claymores, where in reality it would have been more like agincourt or tanenberg
This is a superb piece of information and education delivered with excellence. I've always loved history and thought I was a "buff" when it came to British history. But from watching your videos I've realised I'm pretty pig-ignorant. Everything I was taught about "British" history 40 years ago stopped at Carlisle. I can't explain to you the absolute joy your videos are bringing me. It's like an atrophied muscle is beginning to jerk and twitch and come to life again after decades. It's like someone has descaled my brain. All the stuff I thought I knew about "British" history is being scraped away and I'm able to put so much of the history of "Britain" into a far wider, better context. It's impossible to explain how grateful I am. It's re-awoken a passion that I didn't know I'd lost. You have my most heartfelt gratitude.
Your history tours of Scotland capture my interest and imagination of the forgotten tales of Scottish history. You are a great narrator and interprator of Scottish history. Cheers!
Thank you for reiterating the significance of the numbers, the time, and the place of all involved. Alot of people don't get the stone wall impact of history because they don't get the context.
Your way of conveying history in human terms is wonderful. It reminds me of the stories of how my first Scottish ancestor, Daniel Robertson/Robins came to America. He was from Blair Atholl, and was taken prisoner by Cromwell's army after the battle of Worcester in 1651. After being imprisoned in London, he was sold as a slave to a plantation in the Connecticut colony in 1652.
Hi Bruce. Another top quality explanation of our history. I’d love to see your accessible style applied to the Covenanters, the Cameronians and their conventicles..a wee trip down to Sanquhar’s not a bad day out😁. Keep up the good work and thank you.
I started studying history via military history, and in getting my bachelor's degree in political science I focused on conflict. It is such a complicated topic that it is frustrating when something you have spent time studying gets reduced to a simple buzzword. I appreciate complexity even as I realize it has to be abbreviated to fit digestible videos. Thank you Bruce for another well done discussion
No main stream tv program explains Scotish history so clearly and simply as you do . There is a warmth to your character that makes watching your videos very enjoyable and easy to follow and this is said by a one brain celled Englishman Brilliant presenting thanks mate
As my father told me and my siblings, “Your family tree is filled with cattle, sheep and horse thieves. That’s why we ended up at the western edge of North America. Your grandfather ran out of continent to run on!” Everyone’s family are heroes. Until you find out they weren’t.
True. I'd like to add, everybody's family are heroes and villains it depends on your perspective. Villains to the victims of raids and thievery heroes to the children they fed with ill gotten gains. Much like today. Good on you to not look back to history with rose tinted glasses and try to understand the context and subtleties of your own family's history.
My family's crest has 3 bulls on it and the motto is "we shall be known by our deeds". Apparently they were cattle thieves from the border lands. I've also got Stewart, McLean and McArthur in my lineage. The ones with the bulls on their coat of arms are Veitch, which is the least Scottish Scottish surname I've ever heard lol, we're Vetor now.
@@BeautifuLakesStreamsBiologists my sister and I actually joke about that. My family was also borders and we still live on the border of two countries, but we're in Michigan
Thats minor league, Armstrong ran out of planet and and had to find a new one. No-ones ever asked if there were any unattended cattle up there when he arrived.
Great video Bruce, i live not too far from Harlaw, & have read a little about it. I learned much more from your video, than from the little i have read of the Battle of Harlaw. Thanks mate!
Halo mo charaid! I've always loved learning about Scottish history especially clan history. I found it a great shame we were never taught it in school. Your videos are great craic and I love watching them. I also appreciate how you don't throw us Campbells under the bus like so many others who just peddle the same old stories haha. You side with the UK one time and everyone forgets how often you actually supported the Scottish crown or government *eye roll* smh haha. Keep up the good work my dude! Alba gu brath.
Don't stop!! One request, please tag all the different clans involved in your videos. I'd love to see mine but I think we may be too small to have a place n a history video.
For me the lack of clarity is partly what makes it all so intriguing. Facts are recorded but the reality is tempered by the characters involved, their tribal and societal motivations, own personal histories and familial concerns. After all, every one of them is a complex human being and boy does that play out on the stage of Scottish history! Being reminded of that in your videos is partly what makes them so compelling and what brings the stories and narratives to life.
Another magic wee video. Watched with a cup of tea, the wife away beekeeping and the wayne oot wae his mates. Time to watch, time to think. I really loved this video and I ask myself why I was not taught this at school or by family. It's part of my country's history that has previously escaped me. I suspect most modern Scots are the same. The only way this ignorance can be dispelled is to learn. Maybe a wee jaunt on the motorbike to these places to see for myself. An Aberdonian with armour? I wonder how much he had to pay for that?
I'm Australian and 3 of my grandparents were scottish. I have been enjoying your utubes as they are very informative and are filling in a lot of my ancestral history that l only have an echo of from my mother - so thank you. Regards Mark
Brilliant presentation, laddie! To tell the truth, though, as interesting as the various causes of this horrendous battle were, all I could think about was the sheer horror of the carnage. I mean, we talk about the industrialized killing of the trench warfare in WWI, and it was an inhuman, pitiless and pointless slaughter that chewed up millions of men over 4 long years, but we have so romanticized the battles of yore, when swords, halberds, pikes and arrows were the instruments of death that we have, I think, lost sight of just how ghastly it was to be hacked to bits, to die slowly as your guts spilled out of you on some stupid field. At least at the Somme when it was your turn to die, the bullet generally made quick work of it (unless you were merely maimed or poisoned by the fookin' gas...) As much as I've been fascinated by history, lo these 50 years, far, far too much of it has been a disgusting, remorseless tale of savage butchery, with the "winners" clambering over literal mountains of human bacon. It's enough to put you off this primitive species altogether. No wonder the aliens have never come calling yet.
This might be reaching, but I'd love a video about the Picts and Gaels and Danes and all that mess from a bit before. How did all of that factor into creating the modern Scottish people as we think of them? Are they more pictish, gaelic or settlers from danelaw? Do any stories exist from that far back?
Great video! Would love to hear you cover the battle of Sark in 1448! 4000 Scots charged and slaughtered 6000 English. Scottish knights charged through on foot and destroyed the English in an epic battle where many were veterans of the hundred years war. The Battle was led by the Douglas family and a descendant of William Wallace, also of the same name. Scotland at that time won handily when you think of Otterburn, Piperdean, Sark, and the victory in France.
Being Australian, I have heard precious little about Scottish History. My Mother was a Taylor, and her Great (?) Grandfather was paid a stipend to stay in Australia. The stipend evaporated when he died. NO idea why, or who. Apparently, some mad Aunt (Maud?) burnt ALL of the associated paperwork when the idea of an inheritance came sniffing around. Family is complex. MOST of what I know is English in origin. I suppose, they won, which is odd, as it was a Stuart King that unified the Kingdom. Go figure. I live in Culloden avenue in Hobart, so you can see where the sympathies used to lie. The think is, I have NO idea of where Taylor clan lies in the who's who of Scottish clans. What I do know is that I own a square foot of Lochaber, which I purchased for Au$50. for some Scottish preservation society or similar. Consequently, I LOVE the idea of the Highlands (despite never having left Oz), and if given a choice, I'd go Highlander. Please do keep up the good work. I love history. Especially the little known stuff. The English were right bastards (Dad's family was Welsh, STILL a colloquialism used as a slur). Love your work.
Oooh, maybe be a bit careful giving your address out like that? The internet is vast, but I'm Tasmanian & I know where that is, sooo... Anyways, cool to see another Aussie into Scottish & family history- one branch of our family are having a reunion soon, & I'm putting together some info for it, & Bruce's vids will be in the references, cos we managed to track down the royal ancestors THAT EVERYONE HAS, I KNOW, & as it's an illegitimate (ofc!) son of James V, whose mother was Margaret Tudor, I get to throw lots of cool Stewart & Tudor history & genealogy at people :D
@@beth7935 Fortunately, I had done a grammatical error, and totally fluffed up the address bit. They can cruise Culloden Avenue as much as they like looking for a Mr Yes No, but I am no longer on that lovely isle.
Thank you very much for your channel. I live in the United States but I have always loved Scottish history and clans. I have wanted to go to Scotland for a long visit and tour the old castles and old battle grounds. I got sick and was unable to travel until they get my health under control before they let me fly but I will get there. You have a great way of making us feel like we are there when you go over the history of your great country. Thank you again for your hard work and sharing the Scottish history with us.
It's hard to analyse a lot of historical events as 'right' or 'wrong' with a modern-day moral compass. When you look back over history the ongoing theme seems to be the upper classes/ leaders of society using the poorer classes as slaves and cannon fodder (and is still evident to this day). There are always 'good' and 'bad' deeds done by the main characters and armies in historical times. It's difficult to comprehend the reasoning and morality behind a lot of it because life was so incredibly different then. "GIVE ME ALL THE LAND COZ MY DA WAS MORE OF A BIG MAN THAN YOUR DA" was the motivation for just about everything, haha.
Fascinating. As a Scot (from Fraserburgh) living in London it's good to see history looked at away from the 'good vs evil' angle. I look forward to finding out more,
Some time back you posted a response to a question of should a black dude be speakin on Scottish history. (😒wtf?) And I said why the fek not? Now with the quality of your presentations, I'm starting to think should anyone BUT Bruce be speaking on Scottish history?!.
My man. This is the best historical oratory I have ever heard. You explained in detail how a battle (That I had never heard of) came about, how it played out, gave me an insight into how the battle would have been. The detail about the treaty of Westminster. And then your personal views at the end. I am a) English and b) not easily impressed. I am one impressed Englishman.
Find out about another Highland rebellion at th-cam.com/video/m7rMdO7ag88/w-d-xo.html
Sad news about Neil Oliver. I liked his Rise of the Clans and History of Scotland series. Shame he turned out to be...well, I will leave it there.
Wow. Profound questions and quandaries. Constantly feckin stunned into temporary silence listening to you.
They did not Defeat the Munros, who were know as Monross' during the Time of the Laird of the Isles the Earl of Ross! You really hate Ross' don't you! Surprised you even said the name you Bigot!
do you have any commentary about the McFarland clan, and mary Queen of scots
Prestonpans, is there any other historical battlefields that have been demolished with roads and motorways?
Did enjoy the post on the skirmish with the local lord and militia around tranent.
Originally from ormiston and never knew anything about it
Thanks for another great insight in Scottish history. I liked your summation at the end. My Dad put it eloquently: " Get two Scotsmen you have a conversation, get three and you have a fight."
Oh I've seen a fight with two
@@ScotlandHistoryTours "I've yet to see a solo "Stramash" :-D
@ScotlandHistoryTours I believe it Bruce!
Such a great storyteller. Thank you
Thanks for listening
I was not very academic at School but I only wished that the Lessons were given in such similar way in which you deliver them, lessons would have been so much enjoyable and perhaps some might have stuck.
Agreed!
Born and raised in Glasgow... living in usa love your videos! I sincerely miss my home!
Another traitor in traitor land. Yer no Scottish if ye left Scotland to live in the land of traitors, traitor. True Scots stay in Scotland not leave it
The history of the Scottish clans is fascinating. But I never realised how complex the political interplay of the clans was until I watched your videos.
Intertribal warfare, negotiations, treaties are all part of any people with clans. I'm Indigenous to North America, and my people have 7 clans. Add to that the long rivalries between my people, the Cherokee, and our neighbors in all directions - Meherrin, Tuscarora, Shawnee (and these 3 all Iroquoian like us), Muskoki (our greatest enemies), Chicksaw, Appalachi (the Appalachian Mts are named after them), Euchi... well, you can imagine the levels intricacies involved in trying to maintain a balance of power, negotiate alliances or at least hold off further hostilities, and arrange treaties to release hostages/POWs and uphold boundaries or move them to settle the peace. To this day, some of those old rivalries show their faces... and while most of the time done in fun, sometimes it's not fun at all or in a good way.
People always comment - disparagingly - on how often we Natives fought each other and yet seem to forget that the clans of Scotland fought each other just as often and as brutally, including taking heads, scalps, and other body parts as trophies. In both cases, our clans'/tribes mutual refusal to work together resulted in being conquered and subjected to genocide, oppression, enslavement, and loss of culture. The fact that we're still here is testament to the grace and love of the Creator as well as the strength and fire of our spirits, but we've often made it harder for ourselves than it should have been over the years. While I doubt that my people will ever be able to truly be sovereign, it is my hope that Scotland soon reclaims its freedom from the UK, and this time may the clans all work together for the better of all.
@@allisonshaw9341 Please forgive me as I know very little history on the Indigenous people of America but sounds akin to walking over eggshells.
Your absolutely right, people seem to have a selective memory when it comes to history and cherry pick the parts they want to suit an agenda. All of Europe's history is steeped in bloodshed and bitter feuding, it makes me mad that this often gets forgotten, but the history of indigenous peoples is put under the microscope in this regard.
I do find it strange how tribalism can run so deep within humans we are so willing to fight amongst ourselves that we don't see the larger and more dangerous threats. Same here Scotland would be far better without the UK the house of Commons really does have no place in deciding what Scotland can and can't do. And I hope that you reclaim the lands stolen from you, and all the Indigenous clans find common ground, after all nothing scares governments more than solidarity.
Far more family then politics.
@@matthewmorrisdon6906 Very true, the clans were about kin more than anything else. I just never realized the intricacies of it all.
It was the Laird of the Isles the Earl of Ross, this guy won't even tell you the mons Full Name, so how could you ever have the context of what really happened!
When you get to the point where there's more comments you can reply to, you're doing something right!
Sorry, just seen this
This telling of Scottish history is phenomenal. Without the use of any dramatic graphics or background music Bruce is able to deliver this story in an absolutely riveting manner. Not only going so far as to explain the larger picture of the politics and background at play, but instilling a sense of personal presence for the viewer by describing how any random figure in those armies must have felt. A truly gifted teacher, and an expert in the all too rare art of story telling. Amazing work.
I know. He is sensational...my daily fix!
Agree to you both! This man has such a wonderful gift of communication that I have become so inspired and am currently learning gaelic as a result. Sláinte!
Bruce you tell Scottish history way better than any other Scottish historian
...and I'm no even an historian😂😂
Hi I'm yes...dare I say it an American Scott from Clan MacKay...Found family history of my 5th gen Grandfather John Mckee was there and never came over to the American states in 1795. Says he was there to defend his land and property. I watch your videos to gain an understanding of my family history. You bring that to me. Thank you so much. Good or bad I can take it. Im sure my Clan has done some good for Scotland but still learning. Any history lessons on them would be priceless. Thanks again and keep the history tube going.
Excellent as always. Living near Inverurie I have visited the monument but didn’t know the whole story as you have laid out.
What a perfect measure of history, education and entertainment told in a balanced, unbiased and informative manner.
"You can feel a sense of belonging with being stuck in the past".
Never a wiser statement made, Bruce! Here's to you and your's! Happy New Year!
Hi Mate, I really enjoyed this video. I hope you keep making them. The history of Scotland is so rich and interesting. Best wishes
Well said
I second your comment. 👍🏻
I’m English but I have Cameron blood in me, love your videos they are honestly a dream to watch 👍👍👍
We all have our crosses to bear 😂😂
You, my good man, have the gift of story-telling! Keep up the most excellent efforts.
He knows how to make Scottish history important in all ears ❤ well done sir bravo 👏
History is never easy to explain, people use to think that things are plain and tend to forget that medieval fellows were as complicated as ourselves or even more.
Great video Bruce, you should be teaching History at schools, you're amazing telling stories 🤗
So happy to find this channel! 🏴 🇨🇦🙏🤗❤️ Proud Scottish Canadian!
Ye can only call yourself Scottish if you were born in Scotland. Dont be like the Americans and call yourself something you aren't.
@@luciusquinctiuscincinnatus6627 I’m sorry? My parents and grandparent and great grandparents are my Scottish roots! And I am a Canadian who is Scottish! Seriously??????? 🤯🤬🤦♀️❤️🏴🇨🇦
@@char3679 do you like indians
I’m happy you film this in different locations and in person. As an American I’m not familiar with the geography of the British isles and being able to see the rolling green hills really helps me picture historical moments.
Start by calling them the proper countries and not ‘British isles’ 👍🏼
@@xConoooR1 So what the UK and Ireland lol? If you want me to name Scotland and Wales individually then they shouldn’t have been conquered.
@@stonedchicken02 UK and Ireland is fine. No one uses the term British Isles anymore
After a week of binging the videos, I get to watch a new video!
I've been doing the exact same thing .!
I respect how much time you put into your videos, culminating in a wonderful narrative of the history of Scotland!
Another joy to watch and hear, Bruce. You have a lovely light, humorous touch that keeps up the interest, and filming at the locations where the events happened brings it all to life. Thanks for this.
Guys truly one of a kind, inside and out.
Thank you for sharing all of these bits of history with us, for most assuredly we'll never find it in the vast majority of history books.
I love your tone, you really make history fascinating with the way you come across and highlight important facts around the battles.
Thanks Bruce. Another brilliant presentation that explains all the nuance of real history.
A nuanced synopsis......well done and thanks for posting!
Thanks for listening
Bruce man, done it again! What a topic! Just getting better and better man. Monday I come off for the summer and will be back to studying just scottish history. Can't wait to sit through the playlists you've put together and pic new topics to look at. Honestly Bruce thanks man you've genuinely opened up so many new topics to scottish history!
Thank you for bringing some of my ancestors stories to life! Leslie and Stewart.
Bruce; Even in today's world, nothing is simple... In fact it is getting more complicated everyday. But keep pumping out these informational videos and we'll all agree to watch.
Videos like these and the history of the Scottish clans makes me truly proud to be a Scot. 🏴
Thank you for expanding on Scottish history in a way that isn't patronizing. You cut through the harl quite nicely. Looking forward to your next lesson - don't change anything!
Though I have no ancestral connection to Scotland, I do value the universal questions that history raises. I recently found your channel. You’re an excellent teacher. Thank you.
Thankyou
A great video, I live about 5 minutes down the road from Harlaw, and it’s amazing how little the locals know about their history, some of my friends didn’t even know the monument was there.
Glad you enjoyed it
Wow. Just... Ouch. I love the way you managed to make clear the complexity of an absolute mess. You actually suggest there is a reasoned actual history and not just the jingoistic claims of absolutism and impossible glories. Very much glad I stumbled on this, and very much looking forward to what else you have!
Wow, thanks
I haven't looked up your comedy... but you're a damn good tour guide/educator. Keeping my attention is no easy feat.
Really brilliant Bruce. You express events with such eloquence. Superb. (Said by an Englishman!)
Another great Video Bruce, Thank You for taking the time to make these. You're right about the elephant it crushes the political voice of Scotland, N.I and Wales combined. Your vids are opening my eyes to more places to visit in Scotland.
I've got to say, things don't feel too comfy inside the elephant either.
As an Alexander whose family came to USA from Ulster ( Northern Ireland) and from Scotland before that.. I believe I have found a very wonderful channel here on TH-cam. Thank you for the educational information.
Grateful.
Great content as usual Bruce learned more from you in the past few months than I did at school 😂 keep them coming buddy
Excellent video ma chara. I'm a massive UFC fan and two Scottish fighters are fighting tonight, Paul Craig and Joanne Calderwood. Paul Craig has the opportunity tonight to represent Scotland and to make Scottish combat sports into the elite level. Craig is a school teacher in Scotland who teaches children, very interesting humble man and a big fan. Just letting you know because I am supporting my fellow Celt brother.
I'm glad you included the political situation regarding Harlaw, it's been painted for so long to be a clan battle, when in reality it appears to be much more feudal. Modern perception would have you believe Harlaw would have looked like something from the jacobite era, with kilts and claymores, where in reality it would have been more like agincourt or tanenberg
This is a superb piece of information and education delivered with excellence.
I've always loved history and thought I was a "buff" when it came to British history. But from watching your videos I've realised I'm pretty pig-ignorant. Everything I was taught about "British" history 40 years ago stopped at Carlisle.
I can't explain to you the absolute joy your videos are bringing me. It's like an atrophied muscle is beginning to jerk and twitch and come to life again after decades. It's like someone has descaled my brain. All the stuff I thought I knew about "British" history is being scraped away and I'm able to put so much of the history of "Britain" into a far wider, better context.
It's impossible to explain how grateful I am. It's re-awoken a passion that I didn't know I'd lost.
You have my most heartfelt gratitude.
Glad to have you on board
Another excellent video from you, thank you bruce
Your history tours of Scotland capture my interest and imagination of the forgotten tales of Scottish history. You are a great narrator and interprator of Scottish history. Cheers!
Many thanks!
Brilliant pride myself as a Scottish history geek and never heard about this, so thanks
Tell Sandra I was asking for her
Thank you for reiterating the significance of the numbers, the time, and the place of all involved. Alot of people don't get the stone wall impact of history because they don't get the context.
I get a little kick of happiness every time the notification for a new video comes out. Love ya, Bruce.
😂
Your way of conveying history in human terms is wonderful. It reminds me of the stories of how my first Scottish ancestor, Daniel Robertson/Robins came to America. He was from Blair Atholl, and was taken prisoner by Cromwell's army after the battle of Worcester in 1651. After being imprisoned in London, he was sold as a slave to a plantation in the Connecticut colony in 1652.
Hi Bruce. Another top quality explanation of our history. I’d love to see your accessible style applied to the Covenanters, the Cameronians and their conventicles..a wee trip down to Sanquhar’s not a bad day out😁. Keep up the good work and thank you.
I know, I know
@@ScotlandHistoryTours Please do Dryfe Sands.
Thank You Bruce for your historical teachings & witty humor, it informative and so appreciated.
Thanks for watching!
I started studying history via military history, and in getting my bachelor's degree in political science I focused on conflict. It is such a complicated topic that it is frustrating when something you have spent time studying gets reduced to a simple buzzword. I appreciate complexity even as I realize it has to be abbreviated to fit digestible videos. Thank you Bruce for another well done discussion
I always appreciate your perspective Bruce, very thought provoking. Thank you.
Thanks for listening
Bruce said ''I am not an Historian''but thousands of people learn from your history stories bruce I also do !
No main stream tv program explains Scotish history so clearly and simply as you do . There is a warmth to your character that makes watching your videos very enjoyable and easy to follow and this is said by a one brain celled Englishman Brilliant presenting thanks mate
Yay! Glad you enjoyed it
Nice one Bruce thanks for the story ,massive odds 10 to 1 .
Thanks again, Bruce!! Eloquent and interesting as always.
Excellent vid mate!
I just love that moment of anticipation when you say "But let me tell you a story.........." Great videos mate! I love 'em!! 😉👍
Ah brilliant
I loved his expression of " a marauding horde". Still well and truly alive in Scotland on any derby football match!
I felt spoke to in a good way. Awesome that you take on board our feedback, and address it.
Thanks Mate
I love the clear enthusiastic explanations of the Scotland
Delighted
As my father told me and my siblings, “Your family tree is filled with cattle, sheep and horse thieves. That’s why we ended up at the western edge of North America. Your grandfather ran out of continent to run on!”
Everyone’s family are heroes. Until you find out they weren’t.
True. I'd like to add, everybody's family are heroes and villains it depends on your perspective. Villains to the victims of raids and thievery heroes to the children they fed with ill gotten gains. Much like today. Good on you to not look back to history with rose tinted glasses and try to understand the context and subtleties of your own family's history.
My family's crest has 3 bulls on it and the motto is "we shall be known by our deeds". Apparently they were cattle thieves from the border lands. I've also got Stewart, McLean and McArthur in my lineage. The ones with the bulls on their coat of arms are Veitch, which is the least Scottish Scottish surname I've ever heard lol, we're Vetor now.
Brian, my ancestors were Borderers; I am in Oregon. You could be on to something here!
@@BeautifuLakesStreamsBiologists my sister and I actually joke about that. My family was also borders and we still live on the border of two countries, but we're in Michigan
Thats minor league, Armstrong ran out of planet and and had to find a new one.
No-ones ever asked if there were any unattended cattle up there when he arrived.
"You can feel a sense of belonging, without being stuck in the past"....Thank you Bruce.👍😉
You are very welcome
A LAUGHED AT YOU SAYING "SLEEPING WAY AN ELEPHANT" AND THOUGHT HE'S BEEN PEEKING IN MA BEDROOM WINDAE AGAIN LOL.
😂😂🐘
lol,
Great video Bruce, i live not too far from Harlaw, & have read a little about it. I learned much more from your video, than from the little i have read of the Battle of Harlaw. Thanks mate!
Glad you enjoyed it
You are a brilliant story teller..a true SCOTTISH BARD...well done ..ggtthb.
A real gem of a random TH-cam find this channel is. Really helping bring Scotland's history out of page more easily missed
Welcome on board
Halo mo charaid! I've always loved learning about Scottish history especially clan history. I found it a great shame we were never taught it in school. Your videos are great craic and I love watching them. I also appreciate how you don't throw us Campbells under the bus like so many others who just peddle the same old stories haha. You side with the UK one time and everyone forgets how often you actually supported the Scottish crown or government *eye roll* smh haha. Keep up the good work my dude! Alba gu brath.
He has a very balanced program, not all Campbells are devils, nor do all McDonalds float two feet off the ground either.
haha except im the half that hid and helped america not be thiers later.
Don't stop!! One request, please tag all the different clans involved in your videos. I'd love to see mine but I think we may be too small to have a place n a history video.
For me the lack of clarity is partly what makes it all so intriguing. Facts are recorded but the reality is tempered by the characters involved, their tribal and societal motivations, own personal histories and familial concerns. After all, every one of them is a complex human being and boy does that play out on the stage of Scottish history! Being reminded of that in your videos is partly what makes them so compelling and what brings the stories and narratives to life.
Another magic wee video. Watched with a cup of tea, the wife away beekeeping and the wayne oot wae his mates. Time to watch, time to think. I really loved this video and I ask myself why I was not taught this at school or by family. It's part of my country's history that has previously escaped me. I suspect most modern Scots are the same. The only way this ignorance can be dispelled is to learn. Maybe a wee jaunt on the motorbike to these places to see for myself. An Aberdonian with armour? I wonder how much he had to pay for that?
I enjoy your programs very much. So comprehensive and informative, bringing history alive. Audrey Gregg
Thanks so much!
There he is.
Edit, I really like the talk at the end. Life is, complex. Especially when viewing purely in hindsight. That's y it's good tho.
I'm Australian and 3 of my grandparents were scottish. I have been enjoying your utubes as they are very informative and are filling in a lot of my ancestral history that l only have an echo of from my mother - so thank you.
Regards
Mark
Glad you like them!
Brilliant presentation, laddie! To tell the truth, though, as interesting as the various causes of this horrendous battle were, all I could think about was the sheer horror of the carnage. I mean, we talk about the industrialized killing of the trench warfare in WWI, and it was an inhuman, pitiless and pointless slaughter that chewed up millions of men over 4 long years, but we have so romanticized the battles of yore, when swords, halberds, pikes and arrows were the instruments of death that we have, I think, lost sight of just how ghastly it was to be hacked to bits, to die slowly as your guts spilled out of you on some stupid field. At least at the Somme when it was your turn to die, the bullet generally made quick work of it (unless you were merely maimed or poisoned by the fookin' gas...)
As much as I've been fascinated by history, lo these 50 years, far, far too much of it has been a disgusting, remorseless tale of savage butchery, with the "winners" clambering over literal mountains of human bacon. It's enough to put you off this primitive species altogether. No wonder the aliens have never come calling yet.
Yes, our human race has a very poor record, in fact nothing much has changed in our time.You described it well.
I Really appreciate the way you explained the battle and the way you named the clans and which sides they fought on.
This might be reaching, but I'd love a video about the Picts and Gaels and Danes and all that mess from a bit before. How did all of that factor into creating the modern Scottish people as we think of them? Are they more pictish, gaelic or settlers from danelaw? Do any stories exist from that far back?
The link I shared on your comment might help start to answer some of what you've asked. There are also some good historical accounts from back then.
I know i have a Pict surname .Pitkeathly .
Check out Ulaid or Ulaidh the early people of Ireland
Good topics yes!
Excellent topic which clans are of Gaelic stock which are from pictish stock and which are of Danish
This guy is brilliant…could be on mainstream tv. Great stuf.
Great video! Would love to hear you cover the battle of Sark in 1448! 4000 Scots charged and slaughtered 6000 English. Scottish knights charged through on foot and destroyed the English in an epic battle where many were veterans of the hundred years war. The Battle was led by the Douglas family and a descendant of William Wallace, also of the same name. Scotland at that time won handily when you think of Otterburn, Piperdean, Sark, and the victory in France.
Thanks, Bruce!!! You are a great history teacher!!!!
Can we start a petition to get Neil Oliver aff the telly and Bruce on the BBC 😉
👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
🤣🤣🤣🤣
Aye, I will sign that petition.
I want to see Bruce and Neil chatting over a pint or two. Different sides but equal knowledge.
It's fabulous to hear one's name pronounced correctly!
Being Australian, I have heard precious little about Scottish History. My Mother was a Taylor, and her Great (?) Grandfather was paid a stipend to stay in Australia. The stipend evaporated when he died. NO idea why, or who. Apparently, some mad Aunt (Maud?) burnt ALL of the associated paperwork when the idea of an inheritance came sniffing around. Family is complex.
MOST of what I know is English in origin. I suppose, they won, which is odd, as it was a Stuart King that unified the Kingdom. Go figure. I live in Culloden avenue in Hobart, so you can see where the sympathies used to lie.
The think is, I have NO idea of where Taylor clan lies in the who's who of Scottish clans. What I do know is that I own a square foot of Lochaber, which I purchased for Au$50. for some Scottish preservation society or similar. Consequently, I LOVE the idea of the Highlands (despite never having left Oz), and if given a choice, I'd go Highlander.
Please do keep up the good work. I love history. Especially the little known stuff. The English were right bastards (Dad's family was Welsh, STILL a colloquialism used as a slur).
Love your work.
Taylor is english in origin
@@johnboy9518 the Bastards!!!!!
Oooh, maybe be a bit careful giving your address out like that? The internet is vast, but I'm Tasmanian & I know where that is, sooo... Anyways, cool to see another Aussie into Scottish & family history- one branch of our family are having a reunion soon, & I'm putting together some info for it, & Bruce's vids will be in the references, cos we managed to track down the royal ancestors THAT EVERYONE HAS, I KNOW, & as it's an illegitimate (ofc!) son of James V, whose mother was Margaret Tudor, I get to throw lots of cool Stewart & Tudor history & genealogy at people :D
@@beth7935 Fortunately, I had done a grammatical error, and totally fluffed up the address bit. They can cruise Culloden Avenue as much as they like looking for a Mr Yes No, but I am no longer on that lovely isle.
@@dogcalledholden Cool, I just got worried! Tassie's the place to be right now tho, OMG, we're so lucky.
Thank you very much for your channel. I live in the United States but I have always loved Scottish history and clans. I have wanted to go to Scotland for a long visit and tour the old castles and old battle grounds. I got sick and was unable to travel until they get my health under control before they let me fly but I will get there. You have a great way of making us feel like we are there when you go over the history of your great country. Thank you again for your hard work and sharing the Scottish history with us.
Ah Margaret, you're a sweetie
It's hard to analyse a lot of historical events as 'right' or 'wrong' with a modern-day moral compass.
When you look back over history the ongoing theme seems to be the upper classes/ leaders of society using the poorer classes as slaves and cannon fodder (and is still evident to this day). There are always 'good' and 'bad' deeds done by the main characters and armies in historical times. It's difficult to comprehend the reasoning and morality behind a lot of it because life was so incredibly different then.
"GIVE ME ALL THE LAND COZ MY DA WAS MORE OF A BIG MAN THAN YOUR DA" was the motivation for just about everything, haha.
Fascinating. As a Scot (from Fraserburgh) living in London it's good to see history looked at away from the 'good vs evil' angle. I look forward to finding out more,
Some time back you posted a response to a question of should a black dude be speakin on Scottish history. (😒wtf?) And I said why the fek not? Now with the quality of your presentations, I'm starting to think should anyone BUT Bruce be speaking on Scottish history?!.
Stfu
@@lukef1586 pog ma hoin.
@@lukef1586 Nacheil tu an Sassenach mhor. Amadaun.
My man. This is the best historical oratory I have ever heard. You explained in detail how a battle (That I had never heard of) came about, how it played out, gave me an insight into how the battle would have been. The detail about the treaty of Westminster. And then your personal views at the end.
I am a) English and b) not easily impressed.
I am one impressed Englishman.
Yaaaaaaay!
Almost need a scorecard and maps for this one.
This one was an excellent story told by you Bruce absolutely awsome thankyou
No schtabbíng!
Fantastic history ..you have presented scottish history without the romantic edge,..terrific! Tapadh leat!
'They pressed further.....with the intention of burning Aberdeen'. Let's be honest, we've all felt like doing that from time to time.
Great channel. Great video. Thank you
Wow brilliant..very good story telling skills you have thankyou for sharing..hello from south Italy.
People are complex, clans and history also, well done Bruce!
I'm an Englishman but I find these videos fascinating and very informative.
Very interesting indeed, I've always been fascinated with the battle at Harlow. I'm from New Zealand 🇳🇿 and my ancestry is clan Graham and Hamilton