190. Rags to Riches: The Scots in India

This episode explores the significant role Scots played in the British Empire's expansion into India, particularly focusing on the period following the Battle of Culloden. Against the backdrop of Culloden's aftermath and the subsequent displacement of many Scots, the discussion details how a large number of Scots found employment in the British East India Company's army, often facing off against French forces led by exiled Jacobites. More significantly, the narrative delves into the Carnatic Wars, highlighting the disproportionate number of Scots in the officer corps and their crucial role in victories like the Siege of Srirangapatnam. For instance, the story of Sir David Baird's role in the capture of Tipu Sultan is recounted, emphasizing the symbolic importance of the event and its depiction in art. The episode further examines the economic impact of this involvement, revealing the substantial wealth transferred to Scotland through prize money, land acquisition, and other means, influencing the development of Scottish infrastructure and society. Finally, the podcast touches upon the complex moral implications of Scots participating in colonial activities, contrasting their own experiences of oppression with their actions in India, and hinting at future episodes exploring the cultural exchange and intermarriages between Scots and Indians.