The First of 2024
The February Wrap Up
As we come to the end of February, we celebrate with our latest releases.
Whilst we only published one title this months, things are already pushing ahead - with several other new titles off to the printers!
We can’t wait to celebrate every title this year.
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In The Price of Scotland, Douglas Watt delves into the failure of the Company of Scotland's attempt to establish a colony at Darien in Central America, providing a fresh perspective on this pivotal episode in late 17th-century Scottish history. Watt skillfully examines the factors that led to the creation of the United Kingdom, shedding light on why so many Scots invested a significant portion of the nation's wealth in one company in 1696.
The central questions that Watt seeks to answer are compelling: What drove a relatively poor nation to believe it could compete with the dominant powers of the time in world trade? What motivated countless Scots to invest in a venture that ultimately resulted in substantial loss of both life and money? And, most importantly, what was the true cost, or The Price of Scotland?
One of the strengths of Watt's work is his meticulous research, which brings historical events to life with vivid details. He skillfully navigates through the economic, political and social landscape of 17th-century Scotland, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the conditions that propelled the Company of Scotland into its ill-fated venture.
Watt argues that the decision to invest heavily in the Darien scheme was not merely an economic one but rather a complex interplay of factors. He highlights the prevailing optimism and ambition of the time, coupled with a desire to break free from English dominance in trade. The author paints a vivid picture of a nation grappling with its identity and seeking to assert itself on the global stage.
Moreover, Watt's exploration of the repercussions of the Darien disaster on the negotiations leading to the Union of 1707 adds an additional layer of significance to the story. By examining the aftermath of the failed venture, he provides valuable insights into the shaping of the modern United Kingdom.
The Price of Scotland by Douglas Watt is a compelling and insightful study of a pivotal period in Scottish history. Watt's ability to blend historical analysis with a captivating narrative style makes this book accessible to both scholars and general readers interested in understanding the forces that led to the creation of the United Kingdom.
The book serves as a reminder that the pursuit of grand ambitions, though admirable, can come at a substantial cost—one that reverberates through history, shaping the destiny of nations.
