In the tapestry of Scottish history, few figures lure admiration as profoundly as Andrew Fletcher of Saltoun. A passionate advocate for Scottish independence, Fletcher stood against the tides of political turbulence and foreign domination that marked Scotland in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Born in 1655, this fiery patriot’s life intertwined fervently with the significant political transformations of his time, embodying the struggle for a nation’s identity and autonomy amidst the imposition of English rule. From an early career as a parliamentarian to his resolute opposition to the Act of Union in 1707, Fletcher’s legacy is that of a determined individual who sought to ignite a flame of independence in the hearts of Scots.

His Heritage: A Mix of Privilege and Responsibility

Fletcher was the son of Sir Robert Fletcher, a well-respected country gentleman of considerable estate, and grew up in the lush Scottish countryside of Saltoun, East Lothian. His education, supervised by Gilbert Burnet—who would later ascend to the role of Bishop of Salisbury—laid the groundwork for his intellectual pursuits. Burnet’s mentorship, infused with a deep sense of duty to cultivate virtue and knowledge, had a lasting impact on Fletcher. This foundation propelled him into a political career, marked by fiery opposition to the royal government that dominated Scotland in his early years.

In 1678, Fletcher was elected as the Commissioner for Haddingtonshire to the Scottish Parliament. His decisions and actions, often at odds with the ruling class, reflected his emerging discontent with the political status quo, particularly the oppressive governance of John Maitland, 1st Duke of Lauderdale. The latter’s control wrought distrust in Fletcher, foreshadowing his later fierce opposition to English encroachment.

An Exile’s Resolve

Fletcher’s political activism soon transitioned into a more perilous chapter when he fled to the Netherlands in 1683, following accusations of plotting against King Charles II. His foray into the world of insurrection placed him alongside James Scott, Duke of Monmouth. Despite a promising alliance, Fletcher’s steadfast principles led him to abandon Monmouth’s ill-fated rebellion when Thomas Dare angrily disputed Fletcher’s claim to the use of his horse, and after having reviled him for some time shook a switch at him, on which Fletcher drew a pistol and shot him dead.

This moment marked a fractious yet pivotal turn in Fletcher’s life—prompting his second exile in Europe. Even as factions crumbled and fears of reprisal loomed, Fletcher remained undeterred. His courage illuminated a path toward freedom, and his pleas for Scottish autonomy resonated with those seeking independence.

Resurgence and Advocacy for Independence

The arrival of William of Orange in 1688 rekindled Fletcher’s hopes for a free Scotland. After the Glorious Revolution, he returned home, supported the new regime, and initially enjoyed a modicum of favour. Yet as the political machinations unfolded, his aspirations for a truly independent Scotland began to wane. Fletcher’s disillusionment grew as he realised that the promises of the new monarchy were overshadowed by familiar imperialistic ambitions.

Fletcher’s crucial participation in the Darién scheme reflects both his aspirations for Scotland and the complexities of his political engagement. This ambitious colonial endeavour, aimed at establishing a Scottish trading post in Panama, showcased Fletcher’s vision for a self-sufficient Scotland. Although the venture ultimately ended in disaster, it amplified national pride and underscored Fletcher’s role as a defender of Scottish aspirations amidst a backdrop of economic instability.

The Unravelling of a Nation: Opposition to the Act of Union

By the early 1700s, the spectre of the Act of Union loomed ominously over Scotland. As Queen Anne enacted measures to integrate Scotland into a unified British state, Fletcher emerged as a leading voice against this incorporation. In the Scottish Parliament, he fervently lobbied for a federal union, arguing against the complete dissolution of Scottish identity. He articulated twelve limitations intended to preserve the distinct privileges and governance of Scotland, promoting a vision of a parliament that elected its representatives annually and curtailed prerogatives bestowed upon the monarch.

Fletcher’s robust contributions—including his treatises on civic governance—revealed his belief in the importance of local control and expressed concern over the growing dominance of London. He captivated audiences with well-crafted arguments, effectively painting incorporation as a betrayal of Scottish values and traditions. His combination of fiery rhetoric and personal integrity marked him as a crucial figure in the era’s political debates.

Despite his unwavering efforts, the Act of Union passed in 1707, resulting in a profound disillusionment for Fletcher. Witnessing the official unification of Scotland with England initiated his withdrawal from public life, leading him to focus on agrarian activities in East Lothian, where he sought solace in the land he cherished.

The Enduring Influence of a Scottish Patriot

Fletcher’s legacy, while marked by tragic disappointment, casts a long shadow over the narrative of Scottish nationalism. His writings — particularly A Discourse of Government with relation to Militias — elicited admiration for their advocacy of a local militia over a standing army, prefiguring concepts that would later find traction in modern governance. Scholars have noted the relevance of his arguments in contemporary political discourse, signifying a visionary approach to sovereignty and self-reliance.

His immense library at Saltoun, reputed to be the finest in Scotland at the time, underscores Fletcher’s enduring intellectual spirit. Historians have remarked on his fierce dedication and to contemporaries like David Hume, he was “a man of signal probity and fine genius.” His ability to unite passions with articulate arguments set a standard for future generations of Scottish nationalists. Even Thomas Jefferson acknowledged Fletcher’s ideals—emphasising that Fletcher’s principles were worthy of the purest periods of British constitutional thought.

Andrew Fletcher of Saltoun remains a figure of inspiration, he stood against overwhelming odds yet ultimately witnessed the demise of the political independence he fought so valiantly to defend. His life story is etched in the pages of Scottish history, a testament to the struggle for identity and self-governance. As Scotland continues its journey through modernity, Fletcher’s voice echoes through time, reminding the nation of its rich heritage and resolute spirit.