Robert Burns
The National Poet of Scotland

Robert Burns is Scotland's national bard. You'll hear him referred to as Bobby Burns, Rabbie Burns, and simply The Bard in Scotland.

Robert Burns

A cult like following started up during the 19th and 20th century. Scots the world over celebrate his birthday, January 25th.

Who among us does not know at least part of a Robert Burns poem? Think not? Consider New Year's (Hogmanay in Scottish) as we all join in a chorus of Auld Lang Syne. Yes, that is a Robert Burns poem.

As well as making original compositions, Burns also collected folk songs from across Scotland, often revising or adapting them. His Scots Wha Hae served for a long time as an unofficial national anthem of the country. Other poems and songs of Burns that remain well-known across the world today include A Red, Red Rose; A Man's A Man for A' That; To a Louse; To a Mouse; The Battle of Sherramuir; Tam o' Shanter, and Ae Fond Kiss.

Burns was noted as well for his disdain for morality, organized religion, monogamy and ethics.