They were modern men: doctors and lawyers, students and teachers, shoemakers and shopkeepers, farmers, gardeners and weavers. Children of the Age of Reason, they wrote poetry, discussed the latest ideas in philosophy and science – and rose in armed rebellion against the might of the British crown and government.
Sons of a restless nation that had unwillingly surrendered its independence a mere generation before, some were bound by age-old ties of Highland kinship and loyalty. Others rallied to the cries of ‘Prosperity to Scotland’ and ‘No Union!’
Many faced agonising personal dilemmas before committing themselves to Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite Cause. Few had any illusions about the consequences of failure. Many met their date with destiny on Culloden Moor, players in a global conflict that shaped the world we live in today.
Combining meticulous research with entertaining and stylish delivery, Maggie Craig tells the dramatic and moving stories of the men who were willing to risk everything for their vision of a better future for themselves, their families and Scotland.
Reviews of Bare-Arsed Banditti
‘…a fine example of how to knit together seamlessly the complex and sometimes emotive strands that run through the ’45 to give a balanced and gripping account. This is a superbly structured work, written with passion and conviction.’ Scots Magazine
‘…cleverly retold… The sensitivity and humour in the writing help to make this a very enjoyable and accessible read.’ Leopard Magazine
‘The picture that emerges is of proud individuals, who were both more eloquent and educated than the bloodthirsty rabble of popular imagination.’ Scottish Field
‘These stories are deftly told and … have still great power to move.’ The Herald