Smithy at Kinlochewe, MacDonald's Monument, and Leaning Tower
Born in the Black Isle in 1853, the son of a crofter, Hector MacDonald began his military career as a private in the 92nd Gordon Highlanders. He earned rapid promotion. His actions in Afghanistan earned him a commission which was almost unheard of at the time. Following further distinguished service in Sudan and India, the crofter's son had risen to the rank of Major-General by 1900 and was knighted in 1901. In 1902 he took command of the army in Ceylon.
Such a rise through the ranks of the British Army was almost unheard of in the Victorian era. Although popular with the British public at large, he had gained many enemies particularly within the army. Allegations were made about his sexual and moral conduct, and, after damaging press reports, he committed suicide in a Paris hotel in 1903. Many people, however, believed the allegations were false and the MacDonald Monument in Dingwall was built between 1904-1907 to commemorate Sir Hector MacDonald. The leaning tower was erected at Dingwall near his birthplace.
Click to enlarge the image, read the text then answer the following questions.
Questions
- Where was Sir Hector Macdonald born and brought up?
- Why had he gained so many enemies within the British Army?
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Complete the table below on Sir Hector Macdonald's later life :-
Year Event in his life 1900 1901 1902 1903 - What evidence is there that the allegations of misconduct against Sir Hector Macdonald were false?