On This Day In History - 25th January

Humorous History Presents: On This Day In History - 25th January

 

On This Day in 1759, Robert Burns, the infamous Scottish poet and songwriter, was born.

 

Today, millions of Scots around the world, celebrate Burns night with recitals of the poet's works, songs, and the eating of one of the most disgusting foods on the planet. Yes, oranges. Nope, that's not right, although they are disgusting. I mean Haggis.

 

Robert Burns is also known as the Bard of Ayrshire, or simply as Rabbie Burns to his friends. Scotland regard him as their national poet, and a national treasure.

 

In fact, so much is he revered, not a night goes by in Glasgow when his poems aren't recited to the nearest lamppost after a night of gentle consumption of local ales.

 

Although Robert Burns is known outside Scotland, mainly to those Scots who have travelled, and to fans of his work, Burns might not be a household name throughout the world. But, you have all probably recited or sang one of his poems.

 

It has become a tradition when the bells strike on New Year's Eve, to sing Auld Lang Syne. Yes, you might not have realised, but you were singing one of Robert Burns' poems.

 

So, lift a glass of Glenfiddich and toast to Burns on this very special night.