Scotland’s got a rich history. And it’s been through a lot of ups and downs before it’s gotten to be what it is today. Scotland’s history is a story of powerful monarchs, corrupt noblemen, political intrigue, and brave heroes.
Whether you’re planning on visiting the country or not, you can’t deny that Scotland’s history seems intriguing. And if you want to learn more about it, here’s everything you need to know about its history and some cool facts about the country.
THE HISTORY OF SCOTLAND: A FEW KEY PARTS OF HISTORY
Scotland has been considered home to tons of people for 12,000 years now. That’s a pretty long time! And it guarantees a rich and complex history. In 43 AD, Britain was invaded by Romans and these Romans constantly fought with the Caledonians, native Scots.
Fast forward years later to the 1200s, in the Highlands, a clan system was established. People were divided into clans and were ruled by a clan chief.
In 1297, the Battle of Stirling Bridge happened. Edward, England’s monarch, believed that he should rule over Scotland as well. Edward’s army planned to cross the River Forth at Stirling Bridge and the Scots found their opportunity. Led by the legendary William Wallace, the Scots drove the English army to retreat. The fight for independence continued. In 1306, Robert the Bruce was crowned King of Scotland and finally, in 1320, Scotland was declared an independent sovereign state.
We fast forward again to the 1700s, 1707 to be exact. This was when the Act of Union was signed signifying the moment when Scotland, England, and Wales become a single state ruled by a single monarch. We know this unified group of countries as the United Kingdom of Great Britain.
5 COOL FACTS ABOUT SCOTLAND
Places where the Harry Potter series was filmed can be found in Scotland.
Did you know that JK Rowling, the famous author of the Harry Potter books lived in Scotland since 1993? Scotland is where the author wrote her books. And sets from the film can be found in Scotland. For instance, in the Scottish Highlands, you can find the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. You can also ride the Hogwarts Express.
Scotland’s official animal is the Unicorn.
While most countries have chosen birds or real animals as their official ones, Scotland has chosen the beautiful, mystical unicorn. And for good reason. England and Scotland had been fighting throughout history. England’s official animal is the lion. And according to old myths and legends, the only animal that could defeat such a mighty one is the unicorn.
Scotland is home to the shortest commercial flight in the world.
Did you know that there is such a thing as a 2-minute flight? That’s right! It’s the shortest commercial flight in the world. And you can board this 2-minute flight in Scotland. Scotland has tons of islands here and there. And you have to get there somehow. This flight runs between Westray and Papa Westray. These are 2 islands that are 1.7 miles apart. Board an 8-seater plan for as low as £14.50
THE TAKEAWAY
When it comes to Scotland’s history, there is much to learn. But we hope you’ve learned a lot from the summary we’ve given you above. And we hope that the 3 fun facts we’ve shown above are proof of how cool this amazing country is. It’s got lots to offer and more.