Former Scottish Leader Alex Salmond Dies at 69

Alex Salmond, a pivotal figure in Scotland's political landscape and the former leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP), passed away at age 69, leaving a complex legacy marked by both admiration and controversy. His return to Scotland from North Macedonia was facilitated by billionaire philanthropist Sir Tom Hunter, who recognized Salmond's contributions to the nation. Salmond was a strategic master in politics and media, known for his ability to steer discussions and create memorable headlines, though his popularity waned significantly in recent years. Despite leading the pro-independence movement, his party, Alba, struggled at the ballot box, reflecting a decline in his personal political capital. Remembrances from former colleagues highlight the tribal nature of current Scottish politics in contrast to the more collegial atmosphere of earlier years, a shift partly attributed to Salmond's own divisive strategies. His legacy continues to spark debate within the nationalist movement he helped shape, illustrating the complexities of his influence on modern Scottish nationalism.