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Robert Burns (25 January 1759 – 21 July 1796), also known as Rabbie Burns, the Bard of Ayrshire, Ploughman Poet and various other names and epithets, was a Scottish poet and lyricist. He is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland and is celebrated worldwide.
Robert Burns was born on a dark and windy night in the village of Alloway in Ayrshire. He died just 37 years later, at his home in Dumfries, from an illness that sadly would have been easily treatable today.
Despite his short life Burns left a huge catalogue of poetry and songs that have been poured over, enjoyed and spoken aloud for over 200 years. His timeless words have echoed throughout the generations, inspiring people from every walk of life.
Although he left a great legacy, Burns’ start in life was a humble one. He was born the son of poor tenant farmers and was the eldest of seven children. Even with the family’s money struggles, his father recognized the importance of education and ensured that, alongside working on the family farm, his children were given the opportunity to read and learn.
