Swords in a non-reenacting situation

[beloitpiper]

So we've established that at formal events they are no longer worn, but when/why did this go out of style? Did the natural "casualization" of our society do it, or are there other reasons why we went from this:


to this:

[JSFMACLJR]

So we've established that at formal events they are no longer worn, but when/why did this go out of style? Did the natural "casualization" of our society do it, or are there other reasons why we went from this:


to this:

The Spy cartoon shows the then Marquis of Tullibardine wearing the uniform of his father's army, The Atholl Highlanders. That uniform is still worn.

Kind regards,
Sandford MacLean

[Fedgunner]

I'm working a ren-faire this weekend. (Highland games, covering three different tents.)
I'll have a claidhmore in a back hanging baldic as part of my "bit"
We are promoting Scots heritage. There are certain things the public expects. I'm not afraid to give the visual "Braveheart" to make them listen to the spiel.

[Streetcar]

So we've established that at formal events they are no longer worn, but when/why did this go out of style? Did the natural "casualization" of our society do it, or are there other reasons why we went from this:
(picture removed for brevity)

to this:

( Again, removed for brevity)

Good questions, Greg!

I think part of it goes to the general level of "civilization." Images of armed highlanders are from a time when swords were the weapon of the day. Additionally, there was a higher likelyhood of needing to use them.
As late as the 1920's* a gentleman was considered underdressed if he did not have something to protect his lady against ruffians. (By that time the sword for the gentleman had changed to a sturdy walking stick).

As we have (in theory) become more "civilized" there is supposedly less need to go about armed. Also, for those who have made the choice to be armed, a sword is no longer the practical weapon of the day.

Personally, I would like to see dress swords come back. But I have a penchant for sharp pointy things...


* I'm basing this statement purely on some side research on stick fighting, which led me to some publications from that time. I have no doubt there are those on these boards who could provide better dates, and cite sources. I defer to those individuals in advance.