The Darien Scheme

Scotland’s disastrous empire bid became the crucial turning point in the nation’s political future

- Kenny Macaskill

BOUND for the Panama Isthmus a flotilla sailed from Leith 320 years ago, carrying not just the hopes but the fortunes of the nation. For in April 1698 five ships – Saint Andrew, Caledonia,

Unicorn, Dolphin and Endeavour – embarked on the Darien Scheme. All but one would be lost and thousands of lives would perish, both voyaging there and in the pestilent land they found on arrival.

Far from delivering the dreams of wealth and prosperity for citizens and country alike, it proved to be beyond their worst fears. As well as being the graveyard for many a Scot, it brought the country to the point of bankruptcy and was to be the harbinger for the Treaty of Union, spelling the end of Scottish independence.

Instead of a tropical paradise, the Scots found a harsh and unforgiving land. Many had died simply getting there and many more would be buried on landing. The jungle terrain had to be cut down as both a New Edinburgh and Fort St Andrew were established, but sickness from the malaria-infested land and other hardships took a toll.

The fledgling colony was abandoned the following year but not before a second expedition had departed – this time from Glasgow – to resupply the venture, oblivious to their fate. It would have no more success than their compatriots had in the months before. The inadequacy of preparation and limited resources saw supplies run short, and those able to work were struck down by sickness.