Talent will out, no matter what. But the Scots have not needed such encouraging words over the years. From century to century they have continued to shine, bringing innovations and inventions, recording record times, making the written word dance and communication go the distance.

Science, sport, literature or silver screen - in every field a Scot with a claim to fame. It's a race that has changed the world we live in, a race that has given us tools and conveniences essential to daily life. This is the story of the great Scots achievers, a success story that speaks volumes for hard work, enthusiasm and natural talent - a story that doesn't stop here.

You can find out more about Famous Scots and how they lived a century ago by viewing the 1901 Census records available at ScotlandsPeople.gov.uk

Renowned architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, inventor of the television John Logie Baird and author Neil Miller Gunn - all their records and more can be viewed totally free. View them here