by Robert Burns was born in Alloway, Scotland, on January 25, 1759. He died in Dumfries, Scotland, on July 21, 1796. He was a bard (poet) and wrote many poems, lyrics and other pieces that addressed political and civil issues. Perhaps his best known work is “Auld Lang Syne”, which is sung at New Year’s Eve celebrations in Scotland, parts of the United Kingdom, and other places around the world. Burns is one of Scotland’s important cultural icons and is well known among Scottish expats or descendants around the world. He is also known as: “Rabbie Burns”; the “Bard of Ayrshire”; “Scotland’s favorite son”; and in Scotland “The Bard”.
Some facts about the famous Scot.
-Worldwide, there are more statues dedicated to Robert Burns than any other non-religious figure, after Queen Victoria and Christopher Columbus. As well as in Scotland, monuments dedicated to the poet can be found in America, Canada, New Zealand, Australia and France.
-It is claimed that Michael Jackson’s smash hit Thriller was inspired by the Tam O’Shanter poem.
-The Scot was the first person to ever feature on a commemorative bottle of Coca Cola.
-Legendary artist Bob Dylan revealed that A Red, Red Rose by Burns is his source of greatest creative inspiration.
-American designer Tommy Hilfiger claims to be a great, great, great nephew of Robert Burns.
