What were the Highland Clearances?

After the Act of Union, there were several Jacobite risings — attempts to restore the Stuart kings to the throne. The most famous was in 1745, led by Bonnie Prince Charlie (Charles Edward Stuart). His forces were defeated at the Battle of Culloden in 1746, the last battle fought on British soil. After Culloden, the clan system was destroyed and Highland culture was suppressed.

In the late 18th and 19th centuries, many Scottish Highlanders were forced off their land in events known as the Highland Clearances. Landowners replaced people with sheep, which were more profitable. Thousands of Highlanders emigrated to North America, Australia, and other parts of the British Empire. The Clearances had a devastating impact on Highland communities and culture.