James Anderson, Scottish lawyer and historian (b. 1662)

James Anderson, a towering figure in Scottish intellectual life, was an esteemed Scottish antiquary and historian born in Edinburgh on August 5, 1662. His life's work, spanning from meticulous legal practice to grand historical scholarship, significantly contributed to the understanding and preservation of Scotland's rich past. He passed away on April 3, 1728, leaving behind a legacy of invaluable historical contributions.

Early Life and Foundations in Law

Born to Patrick Anderson of Walston, a church minister who endured imprisonment on Bass Rock in the Firth of Forth due to political or religious strife, young James was destined for a different path. He received a legal education, a common route for bright minds of the era, and by 1691, he had become a writer to the signet—the Scottish equivalent of a solicitor or attorney. This profession, far from being a mere dry pursuit of legalities, serendipitously provided him with unparalleled access to a wealth of ancient documents. It was here, amidst the parchment and seals, that his deep-seated passion for historical study truly flourished, shaping the course of his illustrious career.

The Grand Commission: Safeguarding Scotland's Heritage

Just prior to the pivotal Act of Union in 1707, a landmark event that united the Kingdoms of Scotland and England, the Scottish Parliament entrusted Anderson with a monumental task: to meticulously prepare for publication the surviving public records of the Kingdom of Scotland. Recognizing the immense scope and national importance of this undertaking, the Parliament, in its final session, allocated a substantial sum of £1940 Scots to cover his expenses. This commission was a testament to his recognized expertise and the urgent need to secure Scotland's documentary heritage before the changes brought by the Union. Anderson dedicated several years to this colossal project, approaching it with extraordinary judgment and unwavering perseverance. However, the sheer scale of the work meant it remained incomplete at the time of his death in 1728.

A Posthumous Masterpiece: Selectus Diplomatum et Numismatum Scotiae Thesaurus

A decade after his passing, in 1739, Anderson's magnum opus finally saw the light of day. Edited by the notable scholar Thomas Ruddiman, it was published under the Latin title Selectus Diplomatum et Numismatum Scotiae Thesaurus (A Chosen Treasury of Scottish Charters and Coins). Ruddiman further ensured its accessibility by producing a translation into Scots, making this vital national work available to a wider audience. However, this profound contribution came at a personal cost. The extensive research and preparation involved in creating such a comprehensive national record caused Anderson considerable pecuniary loss during his lifetime. Tragically, soon after his death, the numerous intricate plates, beautifully engraved by John Sturt for the publication, were sold for a mere £530. Today, these original plates are lost, and the complete book has become exceedingly scarce, a poignant reminder of its historical significance and the challenges faced by its creator.

Public Service and Political Disappointment

In partial recognition of his tireless efforts and intellectual contributions, Anderson was appointed Postmaster General for Scotland in 1715. This was a significant public office, seemingly a deserved compensation for his years of dedicated scholarship. Yet, this period of public service was short-lived. Caught in the turbulent political struggles of 1717, he was unceremoniously deprived of his office. Despite his invaluable contributions to the nation's history and administration, he regrettably never again received any official reward or compensation for his extensive services.

Influential Historical Writings

Beyond his monumental work on the public records, Anderson was a prolific and influential writer on Scottish history and sovereignty. During the heated controversy surrounding whether Scotland was bound by the Act of Settlement 1701, he published An Historical Essay showing that the Crown and Kingdom of Scotland is Imperial and Independent (Edinburgh, 1705). Later, he compiled the comprehensive Collections relating to the History of Mary Queen of Scotland (in four volumes, Edinburgh, 1727–1728). Both of these significant works proved to be enduring resources, extensively utilized by his renowned great-nephew, the celebrated historian William Robertson, further cementing Anderson's legacy as a foundational figure in Scottish historical scholarship.

FAQs about James Anderson

Who was James Anderson?
James Anderson was a distinguished Scottish antiquary and historian, born in Edinburgh in 1662. He is celebrated for his profound contributions to preserving and documenting Scotland's public records and for his influential historical writings.
What was his most famous work?
His most celebrated work is the Selectus Diplomatum et Numismatum Scotiae Thesaurus, a comprehensive collection of Scottish charters and coins. Though commissioned by the Scottish Parliament before the Act of Union 1707 and worked on for many years, it was published posthumously in 1739.
When did James Anderson live?
He lived from August 5, 1662, to April 3, 1728.
What was his profession before becoming a historian?
He was educated for the law and became a writer to the signet (a Scottish solicitor or attorney) in 1691. This role provided him with the opportunity to study ancient documents, which fueled his passion for history.
Did he hold any public office?
Yes, he was appointed Postmaster General for Scotland in 1715 as a form of compensation for his historical labours, but he was removed from this position in 1717 due to political struggles.
What was the significance of the Act of Union 1707 in his work?
The Scottish Parliament commissioned him to prepare the public records for publication just before the Act of Union 1707, underscoring the urgency of preserving Scotland's historical documents during a period of significant political change.
Were his works influential on other historians?
Absolutely. His historical essays and collections, particularly those concerning Scottish independence and Mary Queen of Scots, were extensively used and cited by his great-nephew, the prominent historian William Robertson.