“Of all the small nations of this Earth, perhaps only the ancient Greeks surpass the Scots in their contribution to mankind.”

sir sean connery
the original and still the most popular james bond

Sir Sean Connery was a Scottish actor and producer, born on August 25, 1930, in Edinburgh, Scotland. He began his career as a bodybuilder before finding success as an actor in the 1950s. Connery gained international recognition for his portrayal of James Bond, and is often regarded as the definitive 007. In all he starred in 7 Bond movies between 1962 and 1983. Connery's career spanned over five decades, earning him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, two BAFTA Awards, and three Golden Globes. His iconic roles in films such as "The Untouchables," "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade," and "The Hunt for Red October" established him as a legendary actor. Connery was known for his distinctive voice and his suave demeanor and commanding presence on screen. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2000 for his contributions to the arts. Connery passed away in the Bahamas on October 31, 2020 at the age of 90, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the most iconic and influential actors in film history.

sir arthur conan doyle
creator of the legendary detective sherlock holmes

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was a Scottish writer and physician, best known for creating the legendary fictional detective, Sherlock Holmes. Born in Edinburgh on May 22, 1859, he studied medicine at the University of Edinburgh and went on to practice as a doctor in Southsea, England. While working in the medical field, he began writing stories in his spare time. His first Sherlock Holmes novel, "A Study in Scarlet," was published in 1887, and the character quickly gained immense popularity. Doyle went on to write 56 short stories and four novels featuring the famous detective. In addition to his Sherlock Holmes stories, he also wrote science fiction, historical fiction, and non-fiction works. Doyle's impact on literature and popular culture is enduring, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of writers and readers. Beyond his literary achievements, Doyle was also a passionate advocate for social justice, campaigning for criminal justice reform and the end of the Boer War. He passed away in Sussex, England on July 7, 1930 at the age of 71, leaving behind a rich legacy as one of the most iconic writers in literary history.

sir alexander fleming
discovered penicillin, the first true antibiotic, in 1928

Sir Alexander Fleming was a Scottish physician, microbiologist and pharmacologist, best known for his discovery of the first antibiotic substance, penicillin in 1928. Born on August 6, 1881, in Lochfield, Scotland, he studied medicine at St. Mary's Hospital Medical School in London. Fleming's interest in bacteriology led him to conduct research on the properties of the staphylococci bacterium. In 1928, he accidentally discovered the mold Penicillium notatum, which led to the development of penicillin as a medicine. His groundbreaking research revolutionized the treatment of bacterial infections and earned him the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1945. Prior to his discovery, he served as a military physician during World War I, where he witnessed the devastating effects of bacterial infections on wounded soldiers. Throughout his career, Fleming continued to make significant contributions to the field of microbiology and is remembered as a pioneer in the development of antibiotics. Fleming's work laid the foundation for the development of many other antibiotics and significantly impacted the field of medicine. He passed away in London on March 11, 1955, aged 73, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the fight against infectious diseases.

thomas blake glover
played a key role in the modernization of japan

Thomas Blake Glover was a Scottish merchant who played a significant role in the development of modern Japan. Born on June 6, 1838, in Fraserburgh, Scotland, he moved to Nagasaki, Japan in 1859, establishing himself as a successful entrepreneur, eventually founding the trading company Glover and Co. Glover is best known for introducing Western technology and innovations to Japan, including the country's first railway and shipyards, and he was instrumental in the modernization of the country during the Meiji Restoration. He also contributed to the development of Japan's coal mining industry. His contributions to Japan were widely recognized, and he was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun by the Emperor. Glover's influence extended to the military and political spheres, and he played a pivotal role in the development of Japan's modern industrial and military capabilities. His legacy is commemorated in various ways, including the Glover Garden in Nagasaki and the iconic Glover House. He passed away in Tokyo on December 16, 1911, aged 73, leaving behind a lasting impact on Japan's modernization.

allan pinkerton
founder of the pinkerton national detective agency

Allan Pinkerton was a Scottish-American detective and spy. Born in Glasgow on August 25, 1819, he emigrated to the United States in 1842. He is best known for founding the Pinkerton National Detective Agency, which became one of the most famous private security and detective agencies in the United States. Pinkerton gained recognition for his role in foiling a plot to assassinate President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War. He was also instrumental in creating the first "rogues' gallery," a collection of criminal profiles and photographs used by law enforcement. Pinkerton's legacy as a pioneer in the field of private investigation and security continues to influence the industry today. He played a significant role in the apprehension of notorious criminals such as Jesse James. Pinkerton's agency also provided intelligence services for the Union Army during the American Civil War. Pinkerton's contributions to law enforcement and intelligence gathering had a significant impact on American history. He passed away in Chicago on July 1, 1884, aged 64, leaving a lasting legacy as a key figure in the development of modern law enforcement and private investigation.

andrew carnegie
industrialist and philanthropist

Andrew Carnegie was a Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist, born on November 25, 1835 in Dunfermline, Scotland. He immigrated to the United States with his family in 1848, where he worked his way up from a lowly bobbin boy in a cotton factory to become a steel magnate and one of the wealthiest individuals in the world. Carnegie revolutionized the steel industry by implementing cost-cutting innovations and vertical integration. In 1901, he sold his steel company, Carnegie Steel - which had become the largest and most profitable industrial enterprise in the world - to J.P. Morgan for $480 million, making him one of the richest men in history. He dedicated his later life to philanthropy, donating the majority of his fortune to various causes, including libraries, education, and world peace. He funded the construction of over 2,500 libraries, earning him the title of the "Patron Saint of Libraries." Carnegie's legacy includes the establishment of Carnegie Hall, Carnegie Mellon University, and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, and continues to be felt through the numerous institutions and organizations he founded. He died in Lenox, Massachusetts on August 11, 1919, aged 83.

alexander graham bell
invented and patented the first practical telephone

Alexander Graham Bell was a Scottish-born inventor, scientist, and innovator, best known for inventing and patenting the first practical telephone in 1876. With this invention, he revolutionized communication and laid the foundation for the modern telecommunications industry. Born on March 3, 1847, in Edinburgh, Bell moved to the United States in 1871 and became a naturalized citizen in 1882. He held a keen interest in sound and speech, and worked on developing techniques for teaching speech to the deaf. He also made significant contributions to aeronautics, hydrofoils, and optical telecommunications. His legacy continues to influence modern communication technology and his work has had a lasting impact on society, and is an inspiration for countless inventors and innovators around the world. Bell's contributions earned him numerous honors and awards, solidifying his place in history as a pioneering figure in the field of communication. He passed away on August 2, 1922, in Nova Scotia, Canada, at the age of 75.

john logie baird
invented world's first working television system

John Logie Baird was a Scottish engineer and inventor, born on August 13, 1888, in Helensburgh, Scotland. He is best known for inventing the world's first working television system. He achieved this breakthrough in 1925, when he successfully transmitted a flickering image using his mechanical television system, and in 1926, he made the first public demonstration of television. Over the next few years, he continued to improve his invention, ultimately achieving the first long-distance transmission of a television signal in 1927. In 1928, he demonstrated the first color television system. Baird's contributions to the field of television technology paved the way for the modern television industry, and he continued to work on various other inventions throughout his life. He passed away on June 14, 1946, in Sussex, England, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of communications technology.

david livingstone
first european to see victoria falls and source of the nile

David Livingstone was a Scottish physician, theologian, missionary and explorer who traversed the uncharted regions of Africa in the 19th century, beginning in 1841. Born on 19th March, 1813 in Blantyre, Scotland, Livingstone dedicated his life to exploring the continent and spreading Christianity. He is renowned for his discovery of the Victoria Falls and the source of the River Nile, and his efforts to abolish the East African Arab-Swahili slave trade. Livingstone's extensive travels and detailed journals provided crucial geographical and cultural insights into Africa for the Western world. His work significantly influenced subsequent exploration and colonization of the continent. Livingstone's writings and lectures about Africa captivated the public, making him a national hero. His legacy lives on through his contributions to African exploration and his role in bringing attention to the horrors of the slave trade. He passed away in what is now Zambia on 1st May, 1873, at the age of 60, leaving behind a lasting impact on the world.

john paul jones
"father of the american navy"

John Paul Jones was a Scottish-born sailor and naval officer who became a renowned figure in the American Revolutionary War. Born in Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland on 6th July 1747, Jones had immigrated to the American colonies by the time he was 21. He began his career as a merchant sailor before joining the Continental Navy in 1775. Known for his strategic brilliance and daring tactics and leadership, as captain of the USS Bonhomme Richard, he notably captured the British warship HMS Serapis during the Battle of Flamborough Head in 1779. He is often referred to as the "Father of the American Navy" for his contributions to the fledgling navy and his influence on future naval strategy. Jones continued to serve in various naval capacities until his death in Paris on July 18th, 1792, aged 45. Jones' ingenuity and bravery earned him a reputation as a legendary naval hero. His legacy lives on as a symbol of determination, courage, and patriotism in the early history of the United States Navy.

john loudon mcAdam
invented "macadamization" road building technique

John Loudon McAdam was a Scottish engineer and road builder, born on September 23, 1756, in Ayr, Scotland. He is best known for revolutionizing road construction with his invention of "macadamization", a process of building roads with a smooth, hard surface using layers of crushed stone. McAdam began his career as a farmer and eventually became a trustee of the Ayrshire Turnpike, and was appointed Surveyor-General of the Bristol Roads. In 1816, he published "Remarks on the Present System of Road-Making," in which he outlined his innovative approach to road building. His method involved layering roads with compacted layers of small stones, creating a smooth, durable surface that greatly improved travel. McAdam's techniques were widely adopted throughout Britain and eventually around the world, making him a pioneer in the field of civil engineering. McAdam's innovative approach to road construction earned him a lasting legacy as a pioneer in civil engineering. He passed away on November 26, 1836, in Moffat, Dumfriesshire, Scotland aged 80, on his way home to Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, from his annual summer visit to Scotland.

james watt
steam engine improvements empowered industrial revolution

James Watt was a Scottish inventor, mechanical engineer, and chemist, born on January 19, 1736, in Greenock, Scotland. He is best known for his improvements to the steam engine, which played a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution. In 1763, he developed a separate condenser for the steam engine, which greatly increased its efficiency and practicality. This innovation is considered to be the most important development in the Industrial Revolution, enabling advancements in industrial processes and transportation. In addition to his work on steam engines, he also made important contributions to the development of the unit of power, the watt, which is named in his honor. Watt continued to make significant contributions to engineering throughout his life, including improvements to the design of the engine and the development of the concept of horsepower. Watt's inventions had a profound impact on the world and his legacy continues to be celebrated today. He passed away on August 25, 1819, in Birmingham, England, aged 83, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most important figures in the history of engineering.

robert william thomson
invented and patented pneumatic tire

Robert William Thomson was a Scottish engineer and inventor born on June 29th, 1822, in Stonehaven, Scotland. He is best known for inventing the pneumatic tire which he patented in 1845, and which revolutionized the transportation industry. He was granted a patent in France in 1846 and in the US in 1847. Thomson also patented various other inventions, including the fountain pen and the portable steam crane. Throughout his career, he made significant contributions to the fields of engineering and transportation. Thomson's innovative spirit and dedication to improving technology have left a lasting impact on the world. He passed away in Edinburgh on March 8th, 1873, aged 50, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking inventions and advancements in engineering.

john boyd dunlop
invented and patented pneumatic tire

John Boyd Dunlop was a Scottish inventor and veterinary surgeon who is best known for inventing the pneumatic (inflatable) tire. He was born on February 5, 1840, in Dreghorn, North Ayrshire, Scotland. After studying veterinary medicine, Dunlop worked as a veterinarian and set up his own practice in 1867. In 1888, he developed the first practical pneumatic tire for his son's tricycle, which revolutionized the bicycle industry and later the automotive industry. His invention vastly improved the comfort and performance of vehicles and made him a pioneer in the field of transportation. He patented his invention and founded the Dunlop Pneumatic Tyre Company to manufacture and sell the tires. His innovation greatly improved the comfort and performance of vehicles, making him a significant figure in the history of transportation.His legacy is still celebrated today in the form of the modern pneumatic tire. He passed away on October 23, 1921, in Dublin, Ireland, aged 81.

donald trump
45th president of the united states of america

Donald John Trump was born on June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York City. His mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, was born in 1912 on the Isle of Lewis, Scotland, making him of Scottish descent. She emigrated to the United States in 1930. Trump's ties to Scotland are evident in his ownership of the Trump Turnberry and Trump International Golf Links, as well as his Scottish ancestry being a source of pride for him. Trump's paternal ancestry can be traced back to his German grandparents. He attended the New York Military Academy and later graduated from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Trump ventured into real estate and eventually became a prominent businessman, reality TV star, and 45th President of the United States from 2017 to 2021. He has been married three times and has five children. Despite controversy and polarizing opinions, Trump remains a prominent figure in American politics and business.

elvis presley
"king of rock and roll"

Elvis Aaron Presley was born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi, to Gladys Love Smith and Vernon Elvis Presley. He was an American singer, musician, and actor, often referred to as the "King of Rock and Roll." Presley's Scottish roots can be seen in his surname, which is of Scottish origin. Elvis Presley's ancestors are believed to have come from the tiny hamlet of Lonmay near Fraserburgh in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Despite having a humble upbringing, Elvis rose to fame in the mid-1950s with his energetic live performances and chart-topping hits. He became a cultural icon and is often credited with popularizing rock and roll music. His impact on popular music and culture is still felt today, and he remains one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Presley passed away in Memphis, Tennessee on August 16, 1977, aged 42, but his legacy continues to inspire countless musicians and fans worldwide.

neil armstrong
first person to walk on the moon

Neil Alden Armstrong was an American astronaut and aeronautical engineer, and the first person to walk on the moon. He was born on August 5, 1930, in Wapakoneta, Ohio. Before becoming an astronaut, Armstrong served in the United States Navy and later joined NASA, where he made history on July 20, 1969, by stepping onto the lunar surface during the Apollo 11 mission. His achievement marked a significant milestone in human history and solidified his status as an iconic figure in space exploration. Neil Armstrong was descended from Clan Armstrong. His ancestors hailed from Langholm in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland. Armstrong himself traced his roots to southern Scotland in 1972 during a visit where he delivered a lecture on communications in the space age. Armstrong's contribution to space exploration and his pioneering spirit have left an indelible mark on history, inspiring generations of scientists and astronauts. He passed away in Fairfield, Ohio on August 25, 2012, aged 82, leaving behind a legacy of courage and exploration.