Patrick Abercromby facts for kids

Patrick Abercromby (1656–around 1716) was a Scottish doctor and a person who studied old things (an antiquarian). He was known for being the doctor for King James VII of Scotland. He was also strongly against the Act of Union that joined Scotland and England.

Early Life of Patrick Abercromby

Patrick Abercromby was born in Forfar, Scotland, in 1656. He was the third son of Alexander Abercromby. His family was likely Roman Catholic.

He wanted to become a doctor. He went to the University of St Andrews and earned his medical degree in 1685. It seems he spent many of his younger years studying in other countries. Some say he studied at the University of Paris, France.

Returning to Scotland

After his studies, Patrick Abercromby came back to Scotland. He started working as a doctor in Edinburgh. Besides his medical work, he loved studying old objects and history.

In 1685, he became the doctor for King James II. However, he lost this job during a big political change called the Revolution. During this time, there was a lot of debate about Scotland and England joining together.

Patrick Abercromby was a Jacobite. This meant he supported the old royal family. He wrote many short books called pamphlets against the union. He even argued with a famous writer named Daniel Defoe. Abercromby wrote Advantages of the Act of Security compared with those of the intended Union in 1707. He also wrote A Vindication of the Same against Mr De Foe.

Important Writings and Research

Patrick Abercromby also translated a book called Histoire de la guerre d'Écosse (History of the Scottish War) by Jean de Beaugué. This translation came out in 1707.

His most famous work is Martial Atchievements of the Scots Nation. This large book was published in two parts, in 1711 and 1716. In the first part, he said he was just writing about people's lives. But in the second part, he called himself a historian.

Even though some parts of his first book might not be fully accurate today, he worked very hard. He read many old books and handwritten papers. Many important people in Scotland at that time helped him with his research.

When Did Patrick Abercromby Die?

We are not exactly sure when Patrick Abercromby died. Different dates have been suggested, like 1715, 1716, 1720, or 1726. It is often said that he left behind his wife, who was very poor.

Works by Patrick Abercromby

• Translation; Beaugué, Jean de, History of the Campaigns of 1548 and 1549, (1707)