Alex Salmond
Alex Salmond
Biography of the Former First Minister of Scotland
Full Name and Common Aliases
Alexander Elliot Anderson Salmond was born on December 31, 1954, in Linlithgow, West Lothian, Scotland. He is commonly known as Alex Salmond.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: December 31, 1954
Still living as of this writing
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: Scottish
Profession(s): Politician, Journalist, Author
Early Life and Background
Alex Salmond was born to Margaret Anderson and Robert Salmond. His father was a soldier who served in the British Army during World War II. Salmond's family moved around Scotland frequently due to his father's military postings. He attended Linlithgow Academy and later studied at the University of Aberdeen, where he graduated with a degree in History.
Major Accomplishments
Salmond began his career as a journalist before entering politics. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Banffshire from 1987 to 1997 and as the MP for Gordon from 2005 to 2010. In 2007, he was elected as the First Minister of Scotland, leading the Scottish National Party (SNP). Under his leadership, the SNP won a majority in the Scottish Parliament in 2011, allowing them to hold a referendum on Scottish independence.
Notable Works or Actions
Salmond's government implemented several notable policies, including the establishment of the Scottish Futures Trust and the introduction of free tuition for students at Scottish universities. He also played a key role in negotiating the Scotland Act 2012, which gave more powers to the Scottish Parliament.
In addition to his political career, Salmond has written several books, including "Scotland: The New Scotland" and "The Dream Shall Never Die". He has also been a vocal advocate for Scottish independence and has spoken at numerous conferences and events on this topic.
Impact and Legacy
Salmond's legacy is complex and multifaceted. His leadership of the SNP helped to galvanize support for Scottish independence, which remains a contentious issue in Scotland today. While some have criticized his handling of the referendum campaign, others argue that he played a crucial role in bringing the debate into the mainstream.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Alex Salmond is widely quoted and remembered due to his high-profile career as First Minister of Scotland and his advocacy for Scottish independence. His leadership during the referendum campaign made him a prominent figure in British politics, and his quotes and statements continue to be widely reported by media outlets.
Throughout his career, Salmond has demonstrated a commitment to promoting Scottish interests and advocating for greater autonomy for the Scottish people. While his legacy is subject to ongoing debate and controversy, there is no denying that he played a significant role in shaping the current political landscape of Scotland.
Quotes by Alex Salmond

Dave Mackay was the kind of footballer that legends are built around. He was simply the greatest – tough as teak on the pitch and a real gentleman off it.


Their whole by-election plan is in tatters, which is no surprise because everything Mr McConnell puts his fingers on usually collapses or turns to dust.

It is true that Sean had a successful procedure carried out some weeks ago. But he's now fighting fit and raring to go.

It is true that Sean had a successful procedure carried out some weeks ago but he's now fighting fit and raring to go.

It was an underwhelming performance from a man with an eye on his own exit strategy, even if he stubbornly refuses to find one for our soldiers in Iraq.

Dave Mackay was the kind of footballer that legends are built around. He was simply the greatest - tough as teak on the pitch and a real gentleman off it.

For me as leader my time is nearly over but for Scotland the campaign continues and the dream will never die,

