Today, we turn our attention to a monumental moment in the history of medicine that occurred on August 20, 1897. On this day, a Scottish physician named Ronald Ross made a groundbreaking discovery that would forever change the course of medical science and public health. This event not only laid the foundation for the modern understanding of malaria but also earned Ross the distinction of being the first Scot to win a Nobel Prize.

Born on May 13, 1857, in Almora, British India, Ronald Ross was the son of a British Army general. He was sent to England at a young age for his education and displayed early talents in both the arts and sciences. Though initially more interested in literature and mathematics, Ross eventually followed his father's wishes and pursued a career in medicine. He attended St. Bartholomew's Hospital Medical College in London, where his medical journey truly began.

Ross's medical career took him to India, where he served in the Indian Medical Service. It was during his time there that he developed an interest in the study of malaria, a disease that was ravaging populations across the tropics. Malaria was a devastating illness, responsible for countless deaths, and its cause and transmission were poorly understood at the time. The prevailing theories were varied and often inaccurate, leading to ineffective or harmful treatments.

The turning point in Ross's career came in 1894 when he met Sir Patrick Manson, a pioneering tropical medicine specialist who had developed the theory that mosquitoes were involved in the transmission of malaria. Manson became Ross's mentor, guiding him towards what would become his life's work. Despite the challenges of working in the field with limited resources, Ross was determined to uncover the truth behind malaria's transmission.

On August 20, 1897, after years of meticulous research and countless experiments, Ross finally made the discovery that would change everything. While dissecting the stomach of a mosquito that had fed on a malaria-infected patient, he identified the presence of the malaria parasite. This finding provided the first definitive proof that mosquitoes were the vector responsible for transmitting malaria from person to person. Ross's discovery was a monumental breakthrough, confirming that controlling mosquito populations could be a key strategy in combating the spread of malaria.

Ross's work didn't stop there. He continued his research, eventually demonstrating the full lifecycle of the malaria parasite within the mosquito and showing how it was transmitted to humans through mosquito bites. His findings were published and received widespread acclaim in the scientific community. In recognition of his groundbreaking work, Ross was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1902, making him the first Scot to receive this prestigious honor.

The implications of Ross's discovery were profound. It led to new strategies for malaria prevention, including mosquito control efforts, which have saved countless lives over the years. His work laid the foundation for the field of tropical medicine and inspired future generations of scientists to continue the fight against malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases.

Beyond his scientific achievements, Ross was also a man of many talents. He was a poet, novelist, and even an amateur artist. His contributions to mathematics, particularly in the area of epidemiology, are also noteworthy. Despite his many accomplishments, Ross remained a complex and often controversial figure, known for his intense personality and occasional disputes with colleagues.

As we reflect on the events of August 20, 1897, we celebrate the life and legacy of Sir Ronald Ross, a true pioneer in the field of medicine. His discovery not only changed our understanding of malaria but also exemplifies the power of perseverance and scientific inquiry in the face of daunting challenges.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bagtown.substack.com

Today, we're delving into the story of a remarkable Scottish aviator who made history on August 19, 1932. On this day, Jim Mollison completed the first solo East-to-West transatlantic flight, covering the daunting journey from Portmarnock, Ireland, to Pennfield, New Brunswick, Canada. This incredible feat not only etched Mollison's name in the annals of aviation history but also underscored the daring spirit of early 20th-century aviation pioneers.

Jim Mollison, born on April 19, 1905, in Glasgow, Scotland, was a man who seemed destined for the skies. From a young age, Mollison was captivated by the idea of flight. He joined the Royal Air Force (RAF) at just 18, becoming the youngest officer in the service at the time. His passion and skill soon propelled him into the world of civil aviation, where he began setting records and pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the rapidly evolving field of aviation.

By the early 1930s, Mollison had already achieved significant fame. In July and August of 1931, he set a record time for flying from Australia to England, completing the journey in just over eight days. He followed this with another record in March 1932, flying from England to Cape Town, South Africa, in less than five days. These achievements marked Mollison as one of the most accomplished aviators of his time, but his most daring feat was yet to come.

On August 18, 1932, Mollison took off from Portmarnock, Ireland, in his de Havilland Puss Moth, an aircraft he had affectionately named "The Heart’s Content." His mission was to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, from east to west—a direction considered far more challenging due to the prevailing headwinds. While others had successfully flown west to east, Mollison’s journey would be the first to challenge the more treacherous westbound route.

The flight was perilous. Mollison battled severe weather conditions, strong headwinds, and mechanical issues during the 31-hour journey. His Puss Moth, though reliable, was a small aircraft with limited range and no modern navigational aids. Mollison navigated by the stars, relying on his instinct and experience to guide him through the long, dark hours over the Atlantic. Despite these challenges, he pressed on, determined to make history.

On August 19, 1932, Jim Mollison touched down in Pennfield, New Brunswick, to a hero’s welcome. The achievement was nothing short of extraordinary. Mollison had flown over 3,200 kilometers, solo, through some of the most challenging flying conditions imaginable. His successful landing marked the first solo East-to-West transatlantic flight, a milestone that would inspire countless future aviators and cement his place in the history of aviation.

Mollison's achievement was celebrated worldwide, and it further solidified his reputation as one of the era’s most daring and skilled pilots. His flight was not just a triumph of skill and courage but also a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the relentless pursuit of new frontiers.

Jim Mollison continued his adventurous career, setting more records and undertaking other pioneering flights. However, his personal life was as turbulent as his flights. He married fellow aviator Amy Johnson in 1932, and the couple, known as "The Flying Sweethearts," attempted numerous record-breaking flights together. Their marriage, however, was fraught with challenges, including the pressures of their careers and Mollison's struggles with alcohol. They eventually divorced in 1938.

Despite his personal struggles, Mollison’s contributions to aviation were significant. He continued to serve during World War II, and although his later years were marred by declining health and personal difficulties, his legacy as a pioneer of aviation remains unshakable. Mollison passed away in 1959, but his name lives on in the history of flight.

As we reflect on the events of August 19, 1932, we remember Jim Mollison not just for his daring flight across the Atlantic, but for the spirit of adventure and determination he embodied. His journey from Glasgow to the skies above the Atlantic is a story of courage, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of dreams.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bagtown.substack.com

Today, we journey back to August 18, 1966, when a significant milestone in Scotland's infrastructure was achieved—the opening of the Tay Road Bridge. This modern engineering marvel not only transformed the landscape of the Tay Estuary but also redefined the connection between Dundee and Fife, marking a new era in Scottish transportation.

The Tay Road Bridge stretches over 2,250 meters (1.4 miles) across the Firth of Tay, making it one of the longest road bridges in Europe. Designed by the distinguished civil engineer William A. Fairhurst and constructed under the meticulous oversight of WA Fairhurst & Partners, this bridge was a long-awaited solution to the region's transport challenges. For many years, the Firth of Tay had been crossed by a ferry service that, while iconic, was not sufficient to meet the growing demands of post-war Scotland.

The journey toward the construction of the Tay Road Bridge began in the 1950s as part of broader modernisation projects aimed at revitalizing Scotland’s infrastructure. However, it wasn’t until August 1958 that significant progress was made when a traffic census and geological test bores helped establish the most suitable location for the bridge. Despite initial government resistance, the determined lobbying efforts led by Dundee businessman Sir Douglas Hardie secured the necessary funding, and by March 1963, construction was underway.

The bridge's construction was a massive undertaking that spanned over three and a half years. It involved the use of 140,000 tons of concrete, 4,600 tons of mild steel, and 8,150 tons of structural steel. The bridge features a unique gradient, descending from 38.1 meters above sea level in Fife to 9.75 meters in Dundee. The bridge’s design also included a pedestrian and cyclist path between the two roadways, reflecting its inclusive purpose.

One of the most memorable, though controversial, aspects of the bridge's construction was the demolition of Dundee's Royal Arch, a historic monument that had welcomed Queen Victoria during her visit to the city. The rubble from this arch was used as part of the foundation for the bridge's on-ramp, ensuring that a piece of Dundee's history was embedded in the new structure.

The official opening of the Tay Road Bridge on August 18, 1966, was a grand affair, presided over by the Queen Mother. The event was met with great enthusiasm, as locals and visitors alike took advantage of a brief toll-free period to cross the bridge. The opening signaled the end of the Tay ferry service, affectionately known as "the Fifie," which had long served as the primary means of crossing the river. The ferries were decommissioned, with some vessels finding new homes as far away as Malta.

Beyond its function as a vital transport link, the Tay Road Bridge has also played a symbolic role in the region. A 50-foot-tall obelisk stands at the Newport-on-Tay side, with a smaller counterpart in Dundee, commemorating the workers who lost their lives during the bridge's construction, as well as Willie Logan, the managing director of the construction company, who tragically died in a plane crash.

Over the decades, the Tay Road Bridge has continued to evolve. Originally a toll bridge, it was made toll-free in 2008 following a decision by the Scottish Parliament. The bridge has also earned an affectionate nickname, "Steve," after a local campaign in 2017 humorously sought to give it a more personal identity.

Today, the Tay Road Bridge stands not only as a critical infrastructure link but also as a testament to the vision, determination, and engineering prowess of those who built it. As we commemorate its opening on this day in 1966, we reflect on how this bridge has helped to shape the economic and social fabric of Dundee and Fife, fostering greater connectivity and growth in the region.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bagtown.substack.com

Today, we journey back to August 17, 1771, to celebrate a pioneering achievement in the annals of Scottish mountaineering: the first recorded ascent of Ben Nevis by botanist James Robertson. Standing tall at 1,345 metres (4,413 feet), Ben Nevis is the highest peak in Scotland, the United Kingdom, and the British Isles.

Ben Nevis, known in Scottish Gaelic as Beinn Nibheis, is an imposing figure in the Grampian Mountains, near the town of Fort William in the Highland region of Lochaber. Its name, while partly understood, hints at its grand stature. "Beinn" means "mountain" in Gaelic, while "Nibheis" could derive from several sources, including "clouds" or "venomous," possibly referring to the frequent storms that engulf its summit.

James Robertson, an Edinburgh botanist, was the first to document his ascent of this mighty mountain. He undertook this challenging climb not for fame or glory, but in pursuit of botanical specimens. His pioneering spirit paved the way for future adventurers and scientists to explore the rugged beauty and scientific potential of Scotland's highest peak.

Ben Nevis is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts, attracting around 130,000 ascents annually. Most climbers take the Mountain Track from Glen Nevis, a route that offers a challenging but accessible path to the summit. This track, also known as the Tourist Route or Pony Track, was originally built in 1883 to supply the observatory that once operated at the summit. The observatory, in continuous operation until 1904, provided valuable meteorological data, much of which remains significant for understanding Scotland's mountain weather today.

The mountain's north face presents a different challenge altogether. Its 700-metre (2,300-foot) cliffs are among the highest in Scotland and are a haven for rock climbers and mountaineers. These cliffs offer classic scrambles and climbs of varying difficulties, and in winter, they become the premier location in Scotland for ice climbing.

The summit of Ben Nevis is a vast plateau, the remnants of a collapsed volcanic dome. This geological history is evident in the contrasting rock types found near the summit—light-colored granite and dark basaltic lavas—providing a stark reminder of the mountain's ancient volcanic origins.

From the summit, on a clear day, one can enjoy breathtaking views that stretch as far as 190 kilometers (120 miles), encompassing the Torridon Hills, Morven in Caithness, and even Knocklayd in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. However, such clear days are rare. The summit is often shrouded in fog, experiencing foggy conditions nearly 80% of the time during the winter months.

Despite the frequent inclement weather, the summit of Ben Nevis remains a place of wonder and exploration. The ruins of the old observatory still stand, a testament to the dedication of those early meteorologists. The summit also features an emergency shelter, offering refuge to climbers caught in sudden storms.

Ben Nevis has also played host to various feats of human endurance and creativity. In 1911, Henry Alexander ascended the mountain in a Ford Model T as a publicity stunt, an achievement that was captured on film and is preserved in the British Film Institute archives. More recently, in 2018, a statue commemorating Alexander and his car was unveiled in Fort William.

The mountain has also inspired the invention of the cloud chamber by C. T. R. Wilson, a physicist who worked at the summit observatory in 1894. Wilson's experience of seeing a Brocken spectre—a shadow cast on clouds below—led him to recreate the phenomenon in the lab, ultimately developing the cloud chamber, a device used to detect ionizing radiation.

As we celebrate the first recorded ascent of Ben Nevis by James Robertson on August 17, 1771, we honor the spirit of exploration and discovery that continues to draw adventurers to this majestic peak. From its geological wonders to its storied history, Ben Nevis stands as a symbol of Scotland's natural beauty and the enduring human quest to reach new heights.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bagtown.substack.com

Today, we're diving into a significant moment in television history that occurred on August 16, 1962. On this day, the beloved series Dr. Finlay's Casebook was first broadcast on BBC Television across the United Kingdom. The show quickly became a staple in British television, capturing the hearts of millions with its portrayal of life in a small Scottish town during the late 1920s.

Dr. Finlay's Casebook was based on A.J. Cronin's 1935 novella Country Doctor. The storylines revolved around the general medical practice in the fictional town of Tannochbrae, where viewers followed the lives of the doctors and their patients. The central character, Dr. Alan Finlay, was played by Bill Simpson, while Andrew Cruickshank portrayed the wise and somewhat cantankerous senior partner, Dr. Angus Cameron. The ever-reliable Janet MacPherson, their housekeeper and receptionist, was brought to life by Barbara Mullen.

The show’s charm lay in its depiction of the human condition through the lens of medical practice in a rural Scottish community. Each episode delved into the challenges faced by the doctors as they navigated the complexities of treating both physical ailments and the emotional needs of their patients. The series was a reflection of the time, portraying the simplicity of life, the strong community bonds, and the often-overlooked struggles of small-town living.

The series was not only a hit with viewers but also a critical success. It brought to the forefront the talents of its cast and crew, with Prudence Fitzgerald serving as one of its key directors. Dr. Finlay's Casebook ran for eight series and a total of 191 episodes, although, unfortunately, 122 of those episodes are now considered lost, with no known surviving copies.

The setting of Tannochbrae became iconic, and the town itself was immortalized in the hearts of viewers. However, Tannochbrae was a fictional creation, with the actual filming taking place in various locations around Scotland. The town of Callander in Perthshire was the primary location for the outdoor scenes, while other shots were captured in Milngavie, Kilbarchan, and Kippen, among others. The use of real Scottish towns gave the show an authentic feel, grounding the fictional storylines in real, relatable settings.

The show wasn’t without its controversies. In 1964, A.J. Cronin, who was heavily involved in the early years of the series, expressed dissatisfaction with the direction the show was taking. He felt that the scripts were straying from the original spirit of his work, leading to a public dispute with the BBC. The situation was widely reported in the press, and the public outcry was significant, with many fans writing to Cronin, urging him not to end the series. Despite these challenges, the show continued to air until 1971, becoming a beloved part of British television history.

One of the most enduring aspects of Dr. Finlay's Casebook was its theme music, composed by Trevor Duncan. The march from his A Little Suite became synonymous with the series, adding to its nostalgic charm. The music, much like the show itself, evokes a sense of a bygone era, a time when life moved at a slower pace and the doctor was a central figure in the community.

After its television run, Dr. Finlay's Casebook transitioned to radio, where it continued to entertain audiences from 1970 to 1978. The radio adaptations were often based on the original television scripts, allowing the stories to reach a new audience. In the early 2000s, BBC Radio 4 revived the original Cronin stories, reimagining them with a new cast, yet keeping the essence of the original series intact.

The legacy of Dr. Finlay's Casebook lives on. It not only provided a window into rural Scottish life but also set the stage for future medical dramas. Its influence can be seen in the way subsequent shows have depicted the medical profession, balancing the drama of medical emergencies with the quieter, more personal stories of the characters involved.

As we reflect on the first broadcast of Dr. Finlay's Casebook on August 16, 1962, we remember a series that became a beloved part of British cultural history. It offered viewers a glimpse into a world that was at once familiar and nostalgic, a world where the local doctor was a cornerstone of the community.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bagtown.substack.com

Today, we delve into a darker chapter in Scotland's history, one that marks the end of a grim tradition. On August 15, 1963, Henry John Burnett was hanged at Craiginches Prison in Aberdeen, becoming the last man to be executed in Scotland.

The story of Henry John Burnett is one filled with tragedy, impulsive decisions, and the harsh realities of the justice system during that era. Born on January 5, 1942, Burnett grew up in Aberdeen. By 1963, he was a 21-year-old fish filleter, living a tumultuous life that would soon spiral out of control.

At the heart of this story is a tragic love affair. Burnett had become involved with Margaret May, a married woman who was separated from her husband, Thomas Guyan. Margaret and her two sons had moved out of the home she shared with Thomas and started living with Burnett. However, the relationship between Margaret and Burnett was far from stable. Burnett, increasingly paranoid and possessive, feared that Margaret would leave him and return to her husband.

On May 31, 1963, these fears reached a breaking point. Margaret had decided to return to her estranged husband, a decision that Burnett could not accept. That afternoon, she went to collect her son from the home she shared with Burnett, accompanied by a family friend, Georgina Cattanagh. When she informed Burnett of her decision to leave him, he reacted with fury. In a desperate attempt to prevent her from leaving, Burnett held a knife to Margaret’s throat, but she managed to escape relatively unharmed.

Consumed by rage and despair, Burnett sought out his brother Frank, from whom he stole a shotgun. With the weapon in hand, Burnett made his way to 14 Jackson Terrace, where Margaret had fled. In a fit of rage, Burnett forced his way into the flat and shot Thomas Guyan at point-blank range. After murdering Guyan, Burnett fled the scene, dragging Margaret along with him at gunpoint. The couple drove north towards Peterhead, but their escape was short-lived. Burnett was apprehended by police near the town of Ellon without offering any resistance.

Burnett's trial took place in July 1963 at the High Court in Aberdeen. His defense team argued that he was suffering from diminished responsibility due to his mental state, citing evidence from three psychiatrists who testified that Burnett had psychopathic tendencies and a history of mental health issues. However, the jury was unconvinced, and after just 25 minutes of deliberation, they found Burnett guilty of murder.

The use of a firearm in the crime played a significant role in the decision to impose the death penalty. At the time, murder by firearm was a capital offense, intended to deter such violent crimes. Despite petitions for clemency from both Burnett's family and the victim's family, the sentence was upheld, and on August 15, 1963, Henry John Burnett was hanged at Craiginches Prison. Harry Allen, a well-known executioner, carried out the execution on Britain's newest gallows, which had been installed just the previous year.

The hanging of Henry Burnett marked the end of an era in Scotland. It was the last execution to take place in the country, symbolizing the waning days of capital punishment in the United Kingdom. The death penalty was abolished for murder in Scotland in 1969, and the last executions in the UK took place in 1964, less than a year after Burnett's death.

For decades, Burnett’s body lay in an unmarked grave within the walls of Craiginches Prison, as was customary. However, in August 2014, nearly fifty years after his execution, his remains were exhumed and given a private cremation ceremony in Aberdeen, offering some closure to his tragic tale.

The story of Henry John Burnett serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of justice and the heavy toll that capital punishment can take on all involved. As we reflect on the events of August 15, 1963, we remember the end of a practice that had claimed many lives over the centuries, and we consider the profound changes in our legal and moral landscapes since that time.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bagtown.substack.com

Today, we're diving into one of the most significant and dramatic events in Scottish history—the death of King Duncan I on August 14, 1040. This moment not only changed the course of the Scottish monarchy but also inspired one of the most famous plays in the English language, Shakespeare's Macbeth.

King Duncan I, or Donnchad mac Crínáin in Gaelic, was born around 1001 in Atholl, in what is now modern-day Scotland. He ascended to the throne of Scotland, known as Alba, on November 25, 1034, following the death of his grandfather, King Malcolm II. Duncan's rise to power seemed to have been smooth, as there was no apparent opposition to his rule, which suggests that he may have been Malcolm’s acknowledged successor, or Tánaiste.

Duncan's lineage was prestigious; he was the son of Crínán, the hereditary lay abbot of Dunkeld, and Bethóc, Malcolm II’s daughter. This made Duncan the first monarch of the House of Dunkeld, a line that would continue to shape Scottish history for generations. However, Duncan's reign, which lasted a mere six years, would be marked by a series of military failures and ultimately, his untimely death.

Contrary to Shakespeare's portrayal, the historical Duncan I was not the old, kindly king we see in Macbeth, but rather a young and somewhat inexperienced ruler. His early reign was relatively uneventful, but this calm was not to last. In 1039, Duncan led a large army south to besiege Durham, in what appears to have been an ill-fated attempt to expand his influence into northern England. The campaign was a disaster, and Duncan barely escaped with his life.

Following this defeat, Duncan turned his attention northward, to Moray, a region in Scotland that was semi-autonomous and fiercely independent. Moray was ruled by Macbeth, a powerful nobleman and Duncan’s cousin, who served as his dux, a Latin term meaning "war leader." The relationship between Duncan and Macbeth was complex and fraught with tension, partly because of their competing claims to the throne and partly due to the nature of medieval Scottish politics, which often saw kinship ties and alliances shift rapidly.

In the summer of 1040, Duncan launched a campaign against Macbeth in Moray, likely aiming to assert his dominance over the region. The reasons for this campaign are not entirely clear, but it seems Duncan sought to curb Macbeth's growing power. The two armies met at Bothnagowan, near Elgin, a site now known as Pitgaveny. It was here, on August 14, 1040, that Duncan I was killed in battle by Macbeth and his forces.

Duncan’s death marked a pivotal moment in Scottish history. Macbeth, who had likely viewed Duncan as an ineffective ruler, assumed the throne and ruled Scotland for the next 17 years. Macbeth’s reign, contrary to the villainous depiction in Shakespeare’s play, was relatively stable and prosperous, earning him a place in history as a capable ruler.

As for Duncan, his legacy lived on through his sons. His eldest son, Malcolm III, would eventually overthrow Macbeth in 1057, reclaiming the throne and solidifying the House of Dunkeld's hold on Scotland. Duncan's second son, Donald III, would also become king, though his reign was much shorter and fraught with conflict.

Duncan I’s burial is thought to have taken place at Elgin, though his remains were later moved to the island of Iona, the traditional burial place of Scottish kings. Despite his short and tumultuous reign, Duncan I’s story is a crucial chapter in the history of Scotland, highlighting the brutal and often treacherous nature of medieval Scottish politics.

The events surrounding Duncan's death, particularly his conflict with Macbeth, have been immortalized by Shakespeare, though with significant dramatic license. The real story of Duncan I is one of a young king facing the harsh realities of medieval rule, marked by ambition, betrayal, and the violent struggle for power that characterized the period.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bagtown.substack.com

Today, we're delving into the life of one of Scotland's most visionary inventors, John Logie Baird, born on August 13, 1888, in Helensburgh, Dunbartonshire. Baird's groundbreaking work in television technology earned him a lasting place in history, and his innovations have shaped the way we experience media today.

John Logie Baird's early years were marked by a curiosity and inventiveness that hinted at his future contributions to technology. He was the youngest of four children in a family led by his father, Reverend John Baird, the local Church of Scotland minister, and his mother, Jessie Morrison Inglis. Baird's education took him from Larchfield Academy in Helensburgh to the Glasgow and West of Scotland Technical College and the University of Glasgow. Although his studies were interrupted by World War I, Baird's early exposure to engineering laid the foundation for his later achievements.

After the war, Baird faced health challenges that led him to the south coast of England, where he began experimenting with television technology. His early attempts were rudimentary but determined; he used everyday objects like an old hatbox and bicycle light lenses to build the world's first working television set. In 1924, Baird demonstrated the possibility of transmitting moving silhouette images, a precursor to his more sophisticated work. His breakthrough came on October 2, 1925, when he successfully transmitted the first television picture, a 32-line image of a ventriloquist's dummy named "Stooky Bill." This achievement marked the beginning of Baird's journey to develop a fully functional television system.

The culmination of Baird's work came on January 26, 1926, when he gave the world's first public demonstration of true television images. Held at his laboratory in Frith Street, London, this event was a watershed moment in the history of television. Baird's system could scan and display live moving images with tonal graduation, a feat that had never been achieved before. This demonstration paved the way for the future of television broadcasting.

Baird continued to innovate in the field, and in 1927, he achieved another milestone by transmitting a long-distance television signal from London to Glasgow. This was followed in 1928 by the first transatlantic television transmission from London to New York, cementing Baird's place as a pioneer of global television.

But Baird didn't stop there. He was also a pioneer in colour television technology. On July 3, 1928, he demonstrated the world's first colour television transmission. This system used scanning discs with different colour filters, laying the groundwork for the development of modern colour television. Baird's work in this area was so advanced that by 1944, he was able to demonstrate a fully electronic colour television system that used a 600-line resolution, a precursor to today's high-definition television.

Despite his many successes, Baird faced challenges as well. His mechanical television system, while groundbreaking, was eventually surpassed by fully electronic systems developed by competitors like EMI-Marconi. However, Baird's contributions to the field remained significant. He was the first to demonstrate stereoscopic (3D) television, fibre-optics, and even radar-like systems.

Baird's legacy extends beyond his technical achievements. In recognition of his contributions, he was named one of the ten greatest Scottish scientists in history by the National Library of Scotland and was inducted into the Scottish Engineering Hall of Fame in 2015. In 2021, the Royal Mint honoured Baird with a 50p coin commemorating the 75th anniversary of his death, a testament to his enduring impact on the world of technology.

John Logie Baird passed away on June 14, 1946, in Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex, but his influence on modern media is still felt today. His work laid the foundation for the television systems we now take for granted, and his visionary approach to technology continues to inspire.

As we celebrate the birth of John Logie Baird on this day in 1888, we honour a man whose inventions changed the way we see the world. From the first flickering images on a screen to the vibrant displays in our homes today, Baird's legacy lives on in every television set around the globe.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bagtown.substack.com

Today, we turn our attention to a pivotal event in Scottish military history that took place on August 12, 1630. On this day, Monro's battalion landed at Danzig (modern-day Gdańsk, Poland) on its way to join the renowned Swedish King Gustavus Adolphus's army during the Thirty Years' War. Let's delve into the life and exploits of the indomitable Robert Monro, a distinguished Scottish General whose career spanned multiple continents and conflicts.

Robert Monro, born into the Clan Munro of Ross-shire, Scotland, was the second son of George Munro, 1st of Obsdale, and the grandson of Robert Mor Munro, 15th Baron of Foulis, the chief of Clan Munro. Known as Robert Monro of Obsdale, he was seated at Contullich Castle. His military journey began in the Thirty Years' War, a brutal conflict that ravaged Europe from 1618 to 1648.

In 1626, Robert Monro gained a lieutenancy in the regiment raised by Donald Mackay, 1st Lord Reay, to serve in the Bohemian army. This regiment, known as Mackay's Regiment, embarked from Cromarty and arrived at Glückstadt on the River Elbe after five days at sea. Monro's early military encounters included a fierce skirmish at Boitzenberg near Hamburg and a severe engagement at the Pass in Oldenburg, where he sustained a significant wound to his knee.

Monro’s leadership skills came to the fore during the Siege of Stralsund in 1628. Alongside his cousin, Robert Munro, 18th Baron of Foulis, Monro defended the town against Imperialist forces led by General Albrecht von Wallenstein. The siege was intense, but the Highlanders, under Monro's command, held their ground. The arrival of Alexander Leslie with reinforcements from the Swedish army ultimately broke the siege, earning Monro a promotion to lieutenant-colonel.

In 1630, Monro’s battalion was part of a strategic move to Schivelbein, a fortified town in Pomerania, to obstruct the passage of the Austrians. Despite being vastly outnumbered, Monro and his Highlanders successfully defended the town, demonstrating their resilience and tactical prowess.

The following year, Monro participated in the Siege of Neubrandenburg and the significant battles of Frankfurt an der Oder and Breitenfeld in Leipzig. These victories solidified the reputation of the Scots and Swedes in the conflict. Despite a defeat at the Battle of Nördlingen in 1634, Monro survived and returned to Scotland, only to rejoin the Swedish service in 1637 with fresh recruits.

Monro’s military career continued in the Bishops' Wars, where he fought for the Scottish Covenanters against Charles I. His notable achievements during this period included the capture of Dalkeith and Edinburgh Castle and the siege of Spynie Palace, which ended its 500-year tenure as the seat of the Bishops of Moray.

In 1642, Monro was dispatched to Ireland to quell the Catholic Irish rebellion. He led the Scottish army in Ulster, capturing Newry and imprisoning the Earl of Antrim at Dunluce Castle. Monro's campaign in Ireland was marked by a ruthless strategy and a series of conflicts, including the Battle of Benburb in 1646, where his forces suffered a significant defeat against Owen Roe O'Neill's Irish Confederate troops.

Monro's steadfastness was evident during the siege of Carrickfergus in 1647, where he held out against English Parliamentary forces. However, in 1648, through treachery, Monro was captured and imprisoned in the Tower of London for five years. Upon his release, he resided quietly in Ireland on his wife's estates until his death around 1680.

Robert Monro’s contributions to military history are immortalized in his memoirs, "Monro, His Expedition With the Worthy Scots Regiment Called Mac-Keys," which provide a vivid account of his experiences during the Thirty Years' War. His legacy as a formidable Scottish General endures, highlighting the significant role Scots played in European conflicts during the 17th century.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bagtown.substack.com

Today, we delve into a pivotal moment in Scottish history that occurred on August 11, 1306: the Battle of Dalrigh, also known as the Battle of Dail Righ or the Battle of Strathfillan. This significant clash saw Robert the Bruce's army confront the forces of John MacDougall of Lorne, a key ally of the Comyns and the English.

The backdrop to this battle is steeped in the turbulent power struggles of medieval Scotland. By the late 13th century, the Clan MacDougall had risen to prominence in Argyll, tracing their lineage to Somerled, the first Lord of the Isles. Alexander of Argyll, the clan's leader, held considerable influence through his connections to King John Balliol and his nephew, John Comyn. This alliance positioned the MacDougalls against Robert the Bruce, especially after Bruce killed John Comyn on February 10, 1306, and subsequently crowned himself King of Scots.

Following his coronation, Bruce's campaign for the Scottish throne faced numerous setbacks. On June 19, 1306, Bruce’s forces were surprised and defeated by Aymer de Valence, an English general, at the Battle of Methven. Bruce and his remaining followers retreated westwards, seeking refuge in the rugged terrain of Argyll. Their journey led them to Strathfillan, near Tyndrum in Perthshire, where they encountered a formidable MacDougall force commanded by John of Lorne, known as John Bacach or 'the Lame.'

The exact date of the Battle of Dalrigh remains uncertain, but it occurred between July and early August 1306. Bruce's diminished army, likely numbering between 300 to 500, faced John of Lorne's contingent of around 1,000 men. The MacDougalls, seasoned warriors with deep territorial knowledge, intercepted Bruce’s forces in a narrow pass near Dalrigh, or the "King's Field" in Gaelic.

The chronicler John Barbour portrays Bruce as resolute, though heavily outnumbered. The battle commenced with a fierce assault by the MacDougall axemen, who decimated Bruce’s cavalry and inflicted severe wounds on his men, including notable figures such as Sir James Douglas and Gilbert de la Hay. Despite these losses, Bruce demonstrated remarkable leadership, personally ensuring the safety of his rearguard and managing a strategic withdrawal.

During the chaotic retreat, Bruce found himself isolated and under intense attack. Tradition holds that an assailant tore off the studded brooch fastening his cloak, a relic later known as the "Brooch of Lorn." This emblem of Bruce’s narrow escape eventually returned to the MacDougall family in 1826 after centuries in Campbell possession.

The aftermath of Dalrigh left Bruce’s forces in disarray, effectively dissolving his army as a cohesive unit. Hunted and disparaged as "King Hob" by English propaganda, Bruce became a fugitive, seeking refuge in the mountains of Atholl. From there, he sent his family, including Queen Elizabeth and his daughter Marjorie, to the relative safety of Kildrummy Castle.

Bruce, accompanied by loyalists like James Douglas, embarked on a perilous journey south to the territory of Maol Choluim II, Earl of Lennox. With assistance from Aonghus Óg Mac Domhnaill, chief of the MacDonalds and Lord of the Isles, Bruce found temporary haven at Dunaverty Castle and later on Rathlin Island off the coast of Ulster. This period of exile proved pivotal as Bruce regrouped and planned his resurgence.

Bruce's recovery from the brink of defeat at Dalrigh is one of the most remarkable chapters in Scottish history. By early 1307, Bruce re-emerged, reinvigorated and ready to reclaim his throne. His ultimate victory at Bannockburn in 1314 and the subsequent destruction of the MacDougalls at the Battle of Pass of Brander in 1308 underscored his resilience and tactical brilliance.

The Battle of Dalrigh serves as a testament to the tenacity and strategic acumen of Robert the Bruce, a figure who would eventually secure Scotland’s independence. This day, August 11, 1306, marks a critical juncture in his journey, highlighting both the peril and promise of his quest for the Scottish crown.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bagtown.substack.com