Remembering Alex Salmond: A Complex Legacy in Scottish Politics

Born December 31, 1954 – Died October 12, 2024

The political landscape of Scotland has been irrevocably shaped by the life and career of Alex Salmond, who passed away suddenly at the age of 69. A towering figure in Scottish politics, Salmond was at the forefront of the independence movement, coming tantalizingly close to altering the course of the United Kingdom during the 2014 referendum, which saw 55.3% voting against independence and 44.7% in favor. His journey through the political arena was marked by both remarkable achievements and significant controversies, making him a figure of both admiration and contention.

Early Life and Political Awakening

Born in Linlithgow, West Lothian, to civil servant parents, Salmond’s early life was steeped in the values of public service and civic engagement. He attended St Andrews University, where he honed his skills in debating and political discourse, eventually becoming president of the Federation of Student Nationalists. Graduating in 1978 with honors in economics, Salmond began his career as an agricultural economist in the Scottish Office. However, his passion for politics soon drew him into the fray, particularly as the Scottish National Party (SNP) faced challenges during the tumultuous 1979 general election.

Salmond’s early political activism was characterized by his involvement in the 79 Group, a faction within the SNP that sought to push for a more radical agenda aimed at working-class voters. This period was not without its challenges; internal strife led to his brief expulsion from the party in 1982. Yet, this tumultuous experience ultimately strengthened the SNP, paving the way for Salmond’s ascent within the party.

Rise to Prominence

By 1985, Salmond had become the SNP’s vice-convener responsible for publicity, and his political acumen began to shine. The 1987 general election saw the SNP win three seats, including Salmond’s victory in Banff and Buchan, where he defeated the incumbent Tory. His leadership of the SNP began in 1990, during which he modernized the party and increased its visibility on the national stage.

Salmond’s strategic prowess came to the forefront in 2007 when he led the SNP to become the largest party in the Scottish Parliament, forming a minority government with the support of the Scottish Conservatives. His tenure as First Minister was marked by effective governance and a strong rapport with Scottish businesses, setting the stage for the historic independence referendum in 2014.

The Independence Referendum

The 2014 independence referendum was the pinnacle of Salmond’s political career. His ability to galvanize support for the "Yes" campaign was remarkable, and at one point, polls suggested that independence was within reach. However, the campaign’s economic arguments ultimately faltered, leading to a narrow defeat. In the aftermath, Salmond announced his resignation as First Minister and SNP leader, a decision he would later come to regret as his successor, Nicola Sturgeon, continued to harness the momentum of the independence movement.

Controversies and Challenges

Following his resignation, Salmond’s political fortunes took a dramatic turn. He returned to Westminster as the MP for Gordon but faced a significant setback in the 2017 general election, losing his seat amid a substantial Tory swing. This marked the beginning of a tumultuous period in his life, as he became embroiled in serious allegations of inappropriate conduct, which he vehemently denied.

Despite being cleared of all charges in 2020, the damage to his reputation was profound. The allegations and the subsequent legal battles, including a pursuit for damages against the Scottish government and individuals within the SNP, cast a long shadow over his legacy. Prominent figures, including former SNP minister Fergus Ewing, described the pursuit of Salmond as “the scandal of our age,” highlighting the contentious nature of the political environment he navigated.

A Lasting Impact

Salmond’s legacy is undeniably complex. He was a skilled orator and debater, thriving in the high-stakes environment of Westminster, yet his tenure was marred by controversy and personal challenges. His marriage to Moira McGlashan in 1981 provided a personal anchor amid the tumult of his political life, and she survives him.

As Scotland reflects on the life of Alex Salmond, it is clear that he was a significant figure whose influence will be felt for years to come. His commitment to Scottish nationalism and his role in shaping the modern SNP cannot be understated. While opinions on his legacy may vary, one thing remains certain: Alex Salmond was a colossus of Scottish politics, a man whose ambitions and controversies will continue to spark debate long after his passing.