Gaelic students link bridges 500 years
ONE of Scotland’s oldest universities has had a continuous presence of Gaelic speakers for more than 500 years, a new study has found.
Researchers found that the Gaelic presence at Glasgow University dates back to the 15th century, 450 years before Gaelic was available as a subject of study at the institution.
The findings were made during research for the Sgeul na Gaidhlig aig Oilthigh Ghlaschu’ / ‘Gaelic Story at the University of Glasgow’ project which reveals the “untold history” of the language at the institution. It found that Gaelic speakers educated at the university contributed to a wide range of disciplines over the centuries, ranging from medicine, astronomy, mathematics and science, to philosophy and theology as well as Celtic and Gaelic Studies.
Roibeard O Maolalaigh, Professor of Gaelic at the University, who led the study, said: “Although Gaelic is often hidden from view and silent in official records, Gaelic was a central part of the lives and identities of hundreds of thousands of people living and working in the West of Scotland throughout the ages.
“Gaelic is now spoken by 1% of the population but it was spoken by up to a half of the population when the university was founded in 1451 and the University of Glasgow has always had a Gaelic minority. This untold history deserves to be told, not least for the outstanding role models it provides for younger Gaels.”
One of the first Gaels to attend the University of Glasgow after its foundation in 1451 was Archibaldus Campbell (Gilleasbaig Caimbeul). Another notable Gael with a connection was the arch-Jacobite and Gaelic poet and scholar Alexander MacDonald (Alasdair mac Mhaighstir Alasdair), a student in the early eighteenth century. PUPILS from Notre Dame Primary School sung their Christmas hearts out at a community event in the west end of Glasgow. The celebration was part of events to highlight the area’s shops, pubs, restaurants and cultural attractions. The Byres Road Improvement Group and Byres Road Busi- ness Improvement District have funded new lighting and other proposals are in the pipeline to maintain the street’s popularity.
Ann Laird, chairman of BRIG, said: “Christmas is a great time for getting together.” Picture: Martin Shields