Wae hae, Niall Ferguson

Re “Scotland, it’s over, but keep the accents,” Opinion, Jan. 2

I was initially angered by Niall Ferguson’s column, then I learned he’s an academic and I completely understood the reason for his frustrated tirade. The Scots are practical, down-to-earth people first and foremost. We have had our share of great people, but then so have most other cultured nations. We have great admiration for all others -- particularly Americans -- who succeed in improving the lot of humanity, regardless of the accomplishment.

I wonder if Ferguson really understands some other interesting words penned by Robert Burns: “A man’s a man for a that.”

WILLIAM BRADY

Encino

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Ferguson, in the words of my dear old Scottish mother: “Good riddance to bad rubbish.” What other small bit of “barren rock” has left such a profound and positive influence on modern society? Whatever prompted your writing off your homeland, one thing is certain: We true Scots are well rid of you.

DOROTHY MORRISON-COLLINS

Calabasas