Skip to product information
Darien
£12.99
The Scottish Colonial Disaster That Changed History
John Prebble's definitive account of the Darien scheme
Access Your Content in Seconds
- Complete your purchase on our store.
- Download The Grey Hill App (free).
- Log in using the same email from checkout.
- Your ebook will appear instantly in your library.
All content is securely delivered through our app and not offered as a Shopify download.
About the Ebook
The Company of Scotland and its attempts to establish the colony of Caledonia on the inhospitable isthmus of Panama in the late seventeenth century is one of the most tragic moments of Scottish history. Devised by William Paterson, the stratagem was to create a major trading station between Europe and the East. It could have been a triumph, but inadequate preparation and organization ensured it was a catastrophe - of the 3000 settlers who set sail in 1688 and 1699, only a handful returned, the rest having succumbed to disease, and the enormous financial loss was a key factor in ensuring union with England in 1707.Based on archive research in the UK and Panama, as well as extensive travelling in Darien itself, John McKendrick explores this fascinating and seminal moment in Scottish history and uncovers fascinating new information from New World archives about the role of the English and Spanish, and about the identities of the settlers themselves.Why You'll Love This Ebook
- Discover Scotland's catastrophic attempt to build a colonial empire
- Learn how Darien's failure paved the way for the Union of 1707
- Engage with classic Scottish historical writing at its finest
- Read another celebrated title from Birlinn Ltd - Independent Scottish Publisher
Reviews
'A gripping and illuminating account of Scotland's imperial dream — richly detailed, vividly told and full of insight.' The Herald
'A fascinating exploration of the Darien scheme, blending travel writing, history and sharp contemporary reflection.' The Scotsman
'A compelling narrative that brings clarity and humanity to one of Scotland's most ambitious and disastrous ventures.' Scottish Field
About the Author
John McKendrick was born and brought up in Glasgow. He studied at the LSE and Oxford and is currently a barrister in London and an advocate in Edinburgh. he also worked for two years in Panama And the Caribbean. He was Times Lawyer of the Week in September 2013.Publication Details
Publisher: Birlinn Ltd
Publication Date: 03 March 2016
Print Length: 288 pages (Ebook edition)
ISBN (Ebook): 9780857902610
Format: Ebook
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I access my ebook?
Download The Grey Hill App and log in using the same email you used at checkout. Your ebook will appear instantly in your library.
Can I read it online?
Yes — you can also access your purchases via our online reader at reader.thegreyhill.com.
I can't see my ebook — what should I do?
Tap the refresh button in the app or online reader. If it still doesn't appear, ensure you're logged in with the same email used at checkout. If issues continue, contact us and we'll help right away.
Can I gift this ebook?
Yes — you can purchase a Grey Hill Gift Card here: Buy a Gift Card. The recipient can redeem it on our store, and the ebook will appear in The Grey Hill App.