The disparity between the wealth of the merchant classes of the Scottish Lowlands and the ancient clans of the Scottish Highlands grew, amplifying centuries of division. In the Highlands, clan chiefs gradually started to think of themselves more as commercial landlords than leaders of their people.

That independent spirit bore fruit in 1996, when the highly symbolic Stone of Scone was returned to Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, from London, and in 1999 a new Scottish Parliament—the first since 1707—was elected and given significant powers over Scottish affairs.

Scottish is the preferred adjective; in cases where you are referring to the literature, character, or ancestry of the people of Scotland, it is generally correct to describe them as Scottish.

The official gateway to Scotland provides information on Scottish culture and living, working, studying, visiting, and doing business in Scotland.

Explore Scottish culture: a guide to the history, languages, and celebrations that define Scotland. Perfect for anyone wanting to go deeper than the postcards.

What's Here Speech and Language Pathology MapLibre OpenStreetMap Scottish Rite Foundation of Wyoming

Scottish election results latest – Seismic win for SNP as they take Shetland off Lib Dems Summary More results declare, including an SNP win for Shetland after 27 years in Lib Dem hands.

Scottish election results 2026 live: SNP wins Shetland after 26 years ...

As head of the Scottish Government, the First Minister is responsible for the overall development, implementation and presentation of the administration's policies and for promoting and representing Scotland at home and overseas.

Scottish independence is a movement that aims to restore Scotland as a sovereign state and become independent of the UK. The main political vehicle for the movement is the Scottish National Party, founded in 1934.