Ep 3. Stirling Man

The show History Cold Case is a documentary series that investigates unsolved cases from the past using modern forensic methods. In season 1, episode 3, titled Stirling Man, the team digs into a mystery dating back to the Second World War.

In September 1944, a group of Scottish soldiers discovered the remains of a man in a shallow grave near Stirling. The victim had been shot in the head and buried face down, with his hands tied behind his back. Despite an extensive investigation at the time, the identity of the man and the circumstances of his death remained a mystery for over 70 years.

Enter the History Cold Case team, led by historian Sue Black and forensic anthropologist Caroline Wilkinson. Their mission is to unravel the clues hidden in the bones and bring closure to the victim's family, if they can be found.

The episode begins with an overview of the case and some of the theories that have been put forth over the years. Was the man a spy, a deserter, a victim of gang violence? The team starts by examining the bones for any signs of trauma or disease that may provide some answers.

Right away, they notice that the man had suffered from severe dental problems, likely caused by a poor diet and lack of dental care. This, along with other indicators, suggests that he was a working-class individual from the local area. But who was he, and why was he killed?

The team next turns to forensic pathology, using cutting-edge technology to identify the type of bullet that was used to kill the victim. They also examine the soil and plant material found in the grave, which could provide clues about where the man lived and worked.

A breakthrough comes when they analyze a small piece of cloth found near the body. Using advanced microscopy and chemical analysis, they are able to determine that the cloth was part of a World War I-era uniform, possibly from a Scottish regiment.

This leads to a new line of inquiry: could the victim have been a veteran of the First World War, who had fallen on hard times after the conflict? The team turns to military records and local archives to try to identify possible candidates.

Meanwhile, they also explore the social context of the time. Scotland was experiencing a wave of poverty and unemployment in the aftermath of the war, which may have contributed to the victim's fate. They also look into the history of violence and organized crime in the Stirling area, which could offer another explanation.

In the end, the History Cold Case team puts together a compelling narrative of the victim's life and death, with the help of local experts and the wider community. They are able to identify the man's name and family, and to shed light on the events that led to his tragic end.

Throughout the episode, the team members demonstrate their expertise and dedication, using a range of scientific and historical tools to uncover the truth. They also show respect and compassion for the victim and his loved ones, recognizing the importance of their work in bringing closure to a long-ago mystery.

Stirling Man is a fascinating and moving episode of History Cold Case, highlighting the power of forensic science to unravel the secrets of the past. It also serves as a reminder of the human toll of war and social inequality, and the need to honor and remember those who have been forgotten.