The document discusses the history of the Balmorality region of Scotland from past to present. It references important figures and events that shaped the area, such as Simon Lord Lovat in 1667, King George III's proclamation in 1762 declaring "Lochaber no more", and Thomas Jefferson's views on liberty. It also shares quotes praising the natural beauty of Scotland from Prince Albert's diaries in 1842. The document concludes by discussing the modern challenge of restoration ecology and rebuilding natural capital for future generations at the Aigas Field Centre.
34. Thomas Jefferson
1800 AD
"I have sworn upon the altar of
God eternal hostility against
Thomas Jefferson
every form of tyranny over the
mind of man."
“We hold these truths to be self-evident; that all men are created
equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable
rights, among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
….That to secure these rights, we mutually pledge our lives, our
fortunes, and our sacred honor.” Declaration of Independence.
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45. „Scotland has made a highly
favourable impression on us
both. The country is really very
„
beautiful, although severe and
grand, perfect for sports of all
kinds…‟
Prince Albert‟s diaries 1842
And this was the alternative being offered. Incredible new ideals that no-one had heard of before.People from Europe voted with their feet against feudalism – 10 million left!
Those who had left sent letters home telling people that it might be a good idea to also go out to the New World.Took a long time for the message to get through (people semi-literate) so was early 19th C before a lot of people decided to risk passage, and as late as the early 20th C (photograph)Crucial moment in 1842, potato blight in Ireland. 3 million died in one winter. People worried it would happen in the Highlands too, the House of Lords took 18 months for them to decide that landlords would be responsible for providing famine relief! Many decided it was cheaper to pay their passage to America than have to provide food every decade or so. As a measure of those who left; Strathglass in 1800 – 8342 people, 1900 – 311 people.
Release of human pressure caused fresh flush of grass on the carefully fertilised fields. Perfect for sheep. And they were brought in by the thousands in the ruins of previous communities.
Bonnie banks and braes – Robbie Burns
Moorland managed to provide new shoots amongst the leggy cover
Patchwork effect – erradicates other plants.
Brought back the beavers (demonstration project) to manage habitat
