Should Old Acquaintance Be Forgot? The Uses of History in Scottish Nationalist Politics, 2007‐Present

Abstract

The Scottish National Party (SNP) was elected into government in 2007, and in January 2012 announced plans for an independence referendum. In the same period, the SNP government implemented substantial cultural and heritage projects — some of which showcased the long history of Scottish‐English animosity. In the accompanying political rhetoric, it was clear that the SNP was utilising history for the 2014 independence campaign. This referendum ultimately resulted in Scotland's retention of the Union, though the SNP remained in power. The Scottish‐British relationship was further tested in 2016, however, with the UK referendum on leaving the EU. All Scottish electorates voted in favour of remaining, and the chasm between Scottish and British identities and future trajectories has since widened further. This article compares the SNP's promotion of nationalist historical narratives prior to the 2014 referendum, particularly those seen in government‐supported heritage initiatives, with subsequent historical narratives expressed especially through diplomatic engagements in light of Brexit. In doing so, the infusion of nationalist histories in contemporary Scottish politics — and the potential complications of this approach for the SNP in the post‐Brexit political landscape — will be highlighted.

Reflecting on nation image and perceptions of nation brand: Scottish-themed pubs, bars and restaurants outside of Scotland

“…This has been particularly important during the Scottish National Party (SNP)-era of government (2007-present), as the SNP has pursued total independence for the nation yet failed to achieve this goal in a 2014 referendum. Concerns over the impacts of independence on Scotland’s economy and global standing were among the issues cited by those who voted to remain in the UK (Clarke, 2020: 396). If the SNP Government holds a second referendum in the future, it will need to convince voters of Scotland’s ability to stand alone internationally.…”