Scotland the How?: The Hows and Whys of Scottish History

This book by the authors of Scottish History: Strange but True sets out to show how these 'bits fit together – how the characters and events of Scottish history made the country of Scotland.

Format: Hardback
Publication date: 24 November 2022
Publisher: The History Press Ltd

Scottish history is a fascinating subject that has captivated people for centuries. The authors of "Scottish History: Strange but True" have set out to explore the various aspects of Scottish history and how they have shaped the country. In this book, they aim to answer the questions "How was Scotland founded by refugees?" "How did the Vikings make Scotland happen?" "How did King David save Scotland AND give it away?" "How did Robert the Bruce forget Scottish history?" "How did a King of Scots declare war on Scotland?" "How did the Jacobites win every round, yet get smashed in the final - twice?" "How did Scotland embrace kilts and tartan after it banned them?"

The book delves into the rich and complex history of Scotland, from the arrival of the Vikings to the reign of King David. It explores the political intrigues, battles, and cultural influences that have shaped Scotland's identity. The authors also shed light on the forgotten stories and characters that have contributed to Scotland's history.

One of the key themes of the book is the role of refugees in shaping Scotland's history. The country has been home to many different groups of people, including the Celts, Romans, and Normans, who have all left their mark on Scotland's culture and society. The book explores how these refugees came to Scotland, what challenges they faced, and how they contributed to the development of the country.

The Vikings, another significant historical figure, also play a prominent role in Scottish history. The book explores how the Vikings arrived in Scotland, their conquests, and their influence on Scottish culture. It also delves into the Viking settlements that were established in Scotland and the impact they had on the local population.

King David, one of Scotland's most famous kings, is also explored in the book. The authors examine how David saved Scotland from invasion by the English and how he later gave away the kingdom to his son, Robert the Bruce. They also explore the political intrigues and battles that surrounded David's reign and the impact it had on Scottish history.

Robert the Bruce, on the other hand, is often portrayed as a hero who saved Scotland from the English. However, the book challenges this narrative by exploring how Bruce forgot Scottish history and how he ultimately lost the battle for independence. It also delves into the political and cultural factors that contributed to Bruce's decision to declare war on Scotland and the consequences of his actions.

The Jacobites, a group of Scottish rebels who fought for the restoration of the Stuart dynasty to the throne, are another significant historical figure explored in the book. The authors examine how the Jacobites won every round of the Jacobite rising, yet ultimately lost the battle for independence. They also explore the political and cultural factors that contributed to the Jacobite's success and their ultimate defeat.

Finally, the book explores how Scotland embraced kilts and tartan after they were banned by the English. The authors examine how the Scottish people resisted the ban and how they eventually embraced these cultural symbols as a way to celebrate their heritage and identity.

"Scottish History: Strange but True" is a comprehensive and engaging book that provides a fresh perspective on Scottish history. It is a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about the country's rich and complex past. The book is well-researched, well-written, and accessible to readers of all ages and backgrounds.

In conclusion, Scottish history is a fascinating subject that has captivated people for centuries. The authors of "Scottish History: Strange but True" have set out to explore the various aspects of Scottish history and how they have shaped the country. In this book, they aim to answer the questions "How was Scotland founded by refugees?" "How did the Vikings make Scotland happen?" "How did King David save Scotland AND give it away?" "How did Robert the Bruce forget Scottish history?" "How did a King of Scots declare war on Scotland?" "How did the Jacobites win every round, yet get smashed in the final - twice?" "How did Scotland embrace kilts and tartan after it banned them?" The book delves into the rich and complex history of Scotland, from the arrival of the Vikings to the reign of King David. It explores the political intrigues, battles, and cultural influences that have shaped Scotland's identity. The authors also shed light on the forgotten stories and characters that have contributed to Scotland's history. One of the key themes of the book is the role of refugees in shaping Scotland's history. The country has been home to many different groups of people, including the Celts, Romans, and Normans, who have all left their mark on Scotland's culture and society. The book explores how these refugees came to Scotland, what challenges they faced, and how they contributed to the development of the country. The Vikings, another significant historical figure, also play a prominent role in Scottish history. The book explores how the Vikings arrived in Scotland, their conquests, and their influence on Scottish culture. It also delves into the Viking settlements that were established in Scotland and the impact they had on the local population. King David, one of Scotland's most famous kings, is also explored in the book. The authors examine how David saved Scotland from invasion by the English and how he later gave away the kingdom to his son, Robert the Bruce. They also explore the political intrigues and battles that surrounded David's reign and the impact it had on Scottish history. Robert the Bruce, on the other hand, is often portrayed as a hero who saved Scotland from the English. However, the book challenges this narrative by exploring how Bruce forgot Scottish history and how he ultimately lost the battle for independence. It also delves into the political and cultural factors that contributed to Bruce's decision to declare war on Scotland and the consequences of his actions. The Jacobites, a group of Scottish rebels who fought for the restoration of the Stuart dynasty to the throne. The authors examine how the Jacobites won every round of the Jacobite rising, yet ultimately lost the battle for independence. They also explore the political and cultural factors that contributed to the Jacobite's success and their ultimate defeat. Finally, the book explores how Scotland embraced kilts and tartan after they were banned by the English. The authors examine how the Scottish people resisted the ban and how they eventually embraced these cultural symbols as a way to celebrate their heritage and identity. "Scottish History: Strange but True" is a comprehensive and engaging book that provides a fresh perspective on Scottish history. It is a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about the country's rich and complex past. The book is well-researched, well-written, and accessible to readers of all ages and backgrounds.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803990453