More specifically the men that served in the Highlander Regiments during the 18th and early 19th century, but more generally, if possible. My curiosity comes mostly from the fact that they are portrayed as taller than average in the Sharpe novels, though Cornwell does romanticize the 'celts' quite a bit in those.

Also could you please explain they were taller (if it was so)? Was it just that people from the Scottish Hihglands tended to be taller? Or were there stricter height requirements than in the rest of the british army? (I tend to think the latter, but who knows).

Anyways, thanks in advance for any answers.