very good post, thank you.
but the fact that you say the highlanders would not be told what to do,well I think they would have done as they where told , or it is they who would have been cut in two. don't forget, in those days it was "my way or the highway" they probably had very litle choice, "do as you are told or else". they probably didn't have a union, or any rights at all, just the right to do as they are told.the free thinking workers where not as abundant as they are today.
but like I said, a very good post,I would like to see a documentary on the subject,I think it would prove to be very good viewing.