This is an archive of the NMS website
Industry and Empire
How did Scotland become one of the most industrialised
countries in Europe?
Follow life in 19th century Scotland as it is shaped by
industrial development. Explore the consequences of exporting
Scottish-made products all over the British Empire and to most
other parts of the world.
Industrial Scotland
Millions of people were a part of the process of
industrialisation, through labour, initiative and tenacity. Many
received its benefits, and were able to live healthier and more
comfortable lives. But many more were victims of overcrowding and
disease, also consequences of rapid urbanisation.
Getting around
Industry and Empire begins with the Workshop of the World on
Level 4, where you can explore some of these industries. Upstairs
on Level 5 the story continues, looking at some of the effects of
industry, especially on city life, and some of the ideas and issues
that were important in Victorian and Edwardian society.
In the gallery
Daith Comes In
Find out about some of the rituals and customs surrounding death, burial and mourning in 18th and 19th century Scotland.
Workshop of the World
Discover how railway engineering, whisky production and shipbuilding carried the name of Scotland across the globe in the 19th century.
Scotland and the World
In the 18th and 19th centuries, large numbers of people left Scotland for a new life overseas. Find out why they left and how they left their mark.
The Silver Treasury
How did the tradition of craftsmanship in silver develop? How was the craft organised from the 16th century? Find out here.
Innovators
Explore the contributions of innovative Scots to the fields of science and technology, exploration and travel, politics and the arts.
Fun and games
What's the
longest journey you've been on? What would you take with you if you
had to leave your home for another country? Find out in our
Discovery Zone, in the Scotland and the World gallery on Level 5.
You can also dress up as an emigrant and explore a kist, a trunk
used by people leaving Scotland to carry their belongings on their
journey abroad.
“Great way to share history with our kids.”
(parent)