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Alexander Selkirk 1676 - 1721
Alexander Selkirk was the real Robinson Crusoe and the inspiration for
Daniel Defoe's book by the same name. Selkirk was born in Largo in Fife. He
was a seaman and took part in several pirateering expeditions. One his last
trip, he had a dispute with the incompetent captain and demanded to be out
ashore thinking the crew would join him. Instead he was abandoned on the
remote island where he survived for four years and four days until his
rescue.
Adam Smith 1723 - 1790
Born and raised in Kircaldy, Smith is known as the true founder of
classical economics. One of his books, The Wealth of Nations, is one of the
most influential works on economic theory. His theories are still relevant
in today's economic climate.
Robert Adam 1728 - 1792
Born in Kircaldy, he is
probably the most famous Scottish architect. His work includes New Register
House in Charlotte Square, Edinburgh and Culzean Castle in Ayrshire
Andrew Carnegie 1835 - 1919
Born in Dunfermline to a weaving family he made a fortune in the steel
industry in the United States. What is remarkable is that he gave a
sizeable percentage of his wealth to causes he felt would benefit society
and built over 2500 free libraries throughout Scotland, England, the United
States and Canada. He returned to Scotland and built Skibo Castle (well
known as the venue for Madonna and Guy Richie's wedding) for his
retirement. The Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum in Dunfermline tells the
story of this exceptional man.
Sir James Dewar 1842 - 1923
Dewar was born in
Kincardine. He invented the vacuum flask whilst investigating the behaviour
of gasses at low temperature. He also invented cordite.
