Early Life and Political Awakening
Alex Salmond, the former Scottish First Minister, discovered his passion for Scottish independence while working as an economist for the Royal Bank of Scotland. Born in 1954 in Linlithgow, his grandfather played a crucial role in shaping his views on Scotland's history.
Political Career Highlights
Salmond's political career saw him rise through the ranks, from joining the SNP after a heated argument to becoming an MP in 1987. He famously faced off with Margaret Ewing to secure the SNP leadership and later led the party to unprecedented success in the 2011 Scottish elections.
Trials and Controversies
Despite his political achievements, Salmond's career faced setbacks, including losing his seat in 2017 and resigning from the SNP due to allegations of rape and sexual assault. He was later acquitted of all charges but admitted to inappropriate behavior towards a civil servant.
Legacy and Regrets
Salmond's legacy is intertwined with his unwavering pursuit of Scottish independence. Despite facing challenges and controversies, his biggest regret remains that Scotland is still not independent.