William Speirs Bruce was a brave explorer and scientist who made numerous hair-raising journeys to both the North and South Poles in the early 20th century. Yet today his name is largely forgotten, his achievements overshadowed by exploits of men like Scott and Shackleton. In this first Intrepid Scots podcast, historian Simon Bendle asks: why have we forgotten Scotland’s great polar hero? (Recorded in front of a live audience at the Patrick Geddes Centre in Edinburgh's historic Old Town).Further reading: - Polar Exploration, by William Speirs Bruce - The Voyage of the Scotia, by R. Rudmose Brown, JH Pirie, RC Mossman- William Speirs Bruce: Polar Explorer and Scottish Nationalist, by Peter Speak- William Speirs Bruce: the Forgotten Polar Hero, by Isobel Williams & John Dudeney

Intrepid Scots

William Speirs Bruce: Forgotten Polar Explorer

Scotland was at the forefront of world exploration for centuries. Brave Scots – men and women – were among the first Europeans to map the frozen wastes of the Arctic, cross the hazardous deserts of Australia, and push deep into the uncharted interior of Africa. What drove these uncommonly tough individuals to do what they did? What did they discover on their adventures? How many of them made it back alive? Intrepid Scots, with Simon Bendle, is a celebration of heroes from a braver age.

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Intrepid Scots

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