Scotland: a very short introduction

Since Devolution in 1999 Scotland has become a focus of intense interest both within Britain and in the wider world. Through Enlightenment, industrial revolution and empire, Scotland influenced the development of the modern world. Rab Houston also explores how an independent Scottish nation emerged in the Middle Ages and how it was irrevocably altered by Reformation, links with England and Europe, and economic change. By examining politics, law, society, religion, education, migration, and culture this Very Short Introduction to Scotland examines how the nation’s history has made it distinct from England, both before and after Union, how it overcame internals tensions between Highland and Lowland society, and how it has arrived at a political, social and culture watershed. Authoritative, lucid, readable and ranging widely over issues of environment, people, and identity, this is Scotland’s story without myths: an ideal introduction for those interested in the Scots, but also a balanced yet refreshing challenge to those who already feel at home in Scotland past and present.