What's happened
Former Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond passed away at 69 from a suspected heart attack while attending a forum in North Macedonia. Tributes from political figures across the spectrum highlight his significant impact on Scottish politics and the independence movement, as well as his personal relationships and legacy in public service.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Scotsman, Alex Salmond's death was described as a 'complete shock' to many, with tributes emphasizing his 'deep and lasting legacy' in Scottish politics. SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn noted that Salmond inspired hope within the party, stating, 'Alex gave all of us in the SNP the belief that what we felt in our hearts was worth fighting for.' The Mirror highlighted Salmond's ability to inspire a generation, stating that he 'never realized his dream of an independent Scotland' but 'inspired a generation to believe in the cause.' Meanwhile, The Independent reported on the outpouring of tributes from across the political spectrum, with Sir Keir Starmer calling him a 'monumental figure of Scottish and UK politics.' This sentiment was echoed by former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who acknowledged Salmond's 'skill in debate and passion for politics.' These contrasting perspectives illustrate the profound impact Salmond had on both his supporters and detractors.
How we got here
Salmond served as First Minister from 2007 to 2014 and was a key figure in the Scottish independence movement. He founded the Alba Party in 2021 after leaving the SNP amid controversy. His death has prompted widespread reflection on his political legacy and personal relationships.
Common question
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What was Alex Salmond's impact on Scottish politics?
Alex Salmond, a prominent figure in Scottish politics, passed away on October 12, 2024. His legacy is marked by significant contributions to the independence movement and his role as First Minister. This page explores his major achievements, the reactions to his passing, and the influence he had on contemporary Scottish politics.
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What Tributes Have Been Paid to Alex Salmond After His Death?
The passing of Alex Salmond, former First Minister of Scotland and leader of the Alba Party, has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the political spectrum. His sudden death on October 12, 2024, during a forum in North Macedonia, has left many reflecting on his significant contributions to Scottish politics and the independence movement. Below, we explore the reactions and legacy of this influential figure.
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What is Alex Salmond's political legacy and how is it being remembered?
The recent passing of former Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond at the age of 69 has sparked a wave of tributes and reflections on his significant contributions to Scottish politics. As a key figure in the Scottish independence movement, Salmond's legacy is being examined from various angles, raising questions about his achievements, relationships, and the future of the independence cause.
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Alexander Elliot Anderson Salmond is a Scottish politician who served as the First Minister of Scotland from 2007 to 2014. He was the leader of the Scottish National Party for over 20 years, serving two terms, from 1990 to 2000 and from 2004 to 2014.
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John Ramsay Swinney is a Scottish politician serving as Deputy First Minister of Scotland since 2014 and Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills since 2016.
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Scotland is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. Covering the northern third of the island of Great Britain, mainland Scotland has a 96 mile border with England to the southeast and is otherwise surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and w
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Nicola Ferguson Sturgeon is a Scottish politician serving as the fifth First Minister of Scotland and the Leader of the Scottish National Party since November 2014. She is the first woman to hold either position.
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Rishi Sunak is a British politician who has served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and Leader of the Conservative Party since 2022.
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Humza Haroon Yousaf MSP is a Scottish National Party politician who has been Cabinet Secretary for Justice since 26 June 2018 and the Member of the Scottish Parliament for Glasgow Pollok since 2016.
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The Scottish National Party is a Scottish nationalist and social-democratic political party in Scotland. The SNP supports and campaigns for Scottish independence within the European Union, with a platform based on civic nationalism.
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The Alba Party is a Scottish nationalist and pro-independence political party in Scotland. The party was founded by the retired television producer Laurie Flynn, with the former first minister of Scotland Alex Salmond taking over as leader.
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North Macedonia, officially the Republic of North Macedonia, is a country in the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe. It gained its independence in 1991 as one of the successor states of Yugoslavia.