The Northern Campaign of the ’45: the Story of a Little War
R.J. Adam presents a new study of the Jacobite rising, and of the complex pattern of local interests that helped to determine the conduct of the Scottish clan-leaders.
The forty five, as is well known, was a Scottish rising. It is not always remembered that it was a rising in Scotland rather than a rising of Scotland. The basis of Jacobite strength in Great Britain dwindled rapidly during the thirty years after the attempt of 1715.
Three heralds might proclaim King James VIII and III at the Mercat Cross of Edinburgh in September 1745—and have their salaries stopped in consequence; but it would be difficult to point to any single area in Northern England, or in Scotland south of the Forth, that provided more than a handful of men for Prince Charles Edward’s army.
The localized nature of Scottish Jacobitism is also very obvious. The lowlands of Perthshire and Angus, the north-eastern counties of Aberdeen and Banff, both produced significant contingents; but, from first to last, the success of the Forty Five hinged on the ability of these Highland clan chiefs who “came out” to keep their followers together. On the other hand, clan loyalties were not straightforward.
To continue reading this article you need to purchase a subscription, available from only £5.
Start my trial subscription now
If you have already purchased access, or are a print & archive subscriber, please ensure you are logged in.
Please email digital@historytoday.com if you have any problems.
