BattlefieldsAskernish clearance resistance South Uist 1851
modern

Askernish clearance resistance South Uist 1851

1851
Scotland
Era
modern
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Forces
Not recorded in historical accounts
Forces
Gordon estate factor and sheriff officers.
VS
Victor
Not recorded in historical accounts
Forces
South Uist tenant families
Outcome
Resistance temporarily blocked proceedings. Emigration scheme eventually implemented. Several hundred South Uist residents shipped to Canada. The clearances drew critical press coverage.
The Battle

History & Significance

South Uist tenants on the Gordon of Cluny estate resisted clearance in 1851 when factor John Campbell attempted to remove families for emigration to Canada. Women blocked the factor and his party from accessing the township. The South Uist clearances were among the most controversial in the western isles.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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