The 1872 Education (Scotland) Act has shaped millions of lives over the past 150 years as well as influencing Scottish society and culture.
It has been estimated that within 30 years of the Act’s passing, illiteracy had been all but eliminated across Scotland, with high attendance rates being maintained. These newly educated pupils had a variety of routes open to them with opportunities to go into various occupations with at least an elementary education in reading, writing and arithmetic behind them. The removal of poverty as a barrier to education was momentous.
However, the impact of the Act on Gaelic cannot be overlooked and, in further marginalising the language, there has been lasting damage done to the culture. A legacy which has ongoing consequences and ramifications to this day.
6th August 1872 was undoubtedly a turning point in Scotland’s history – the passing of a piece of legislation which has shaped lives, landscapes, communities, and country, for both better and worse.
To explore the Highland Archive Service’s extensive education collections in person please visit the archive centre for the area you’re interested in.
If you are a teacher and would like to know more about how Highland Archive Services can support learning please see our leaflet or or visit the learning and outreach pages on our website.
