Ahead of the 2024 Dallachy Lecture on Thursday 28th November, we had the pleasure of catching up with our keynote speaker, Professor Sir Niall Ferguson (1981).
A former pupil of The Glasgow Academy and a globally renowned historian and author, Sir Niall will be delivering a lecture titled ‘How Scotland Changed the World’.
Sir Niall is known for his work on economic history, imperialism, and finance. Among his notable books are The Ascent of Money and Empire: How Britain Made the Modern World.
What will be the main focus of your lecture?
“I will be presenting a global perspective on Scotland and its impact on the world. My aim is to shift Scotland’s history from a nationalist and parochial view into a broader global context. Often, Scotland is seen merely as a subplot in history, emphasising our defeats and disasters. In reality, 18th-century Scotland was a vibrant centre of enlightenment with a significant global influence and 19th-century Scotland was the hub of the Victorian world order.”
This will be your second lecture at The Glasgow Academy. What inspired you to return?
“Simply put, Glasgow Academy changed my life. The opportunities I’ve had would not have been possible without the education I received there. Returning is a way for me to acknowledge the profound impact the school had on my journey.”
Was there a particular mentor or teacher who had a significant impact on you?
“Several faculty members were instrumental in shaping my path. Ronnie Woods was pivotal in my decision to study History at Oxford. Alex Farquhar, John Horrex, and David Gray, my English Literature teacher, were also hugely influential. The confidence I gained from them, along with my family’s support, played a crucial role in my achievements.”
As an active member of The Glasgow Academical Club, what do you find valuable about being part of the alumni network?
“I believe it is our responsibility to support the next generation by sharing our experiences and providing guidance.
“Maintaining connections with my classmates means a lot to me. Last spring, I returned to Scotland with two of my sons, reconnecting with three contemporaries and meeting their sons. We all attended the Calcutta Cup game at Murrayfield, which was a wonderful experience.”
What is your favorite memory of your time at The Glasgow Academy?
“I have many fond memories, but The Academy’s role as a war memorial always stood out to me. The motto, ‘Say Not That The Brave Die’, which features on the War Memorial and the Memorial Boards, was a constant reminder of the sacrifices made for us. This sense of connection to past generations profoundly influenced my decision to become a historian. It instilled in me the importance of striving to do one’s best, even in the most challenging times.”
