How old is Scotland?

Geologically: 3 billion years old!
As a country: Around 1100 years.

In this article, we will explore the age of Scotland from two perspectives. Firstly, we will delve into the geological origins of Scotland, tracing its roots back to the formation of the Earth's crust and the shifting of ancient supercontinents.

Secondly, we will navigate through the currents of Scottish history, from the footprints of the earliest settlers to the formation of Scotland as a country and its evolution (or devolution!) over centuries.

Geographical Birth of Scotland

To understand the formation of Scotland as a landmass, we need to travel back in time, more than a billion years ago, when the Earth was a vastly different place. At various points in geological history, the continents were joined together in supercontinents, and Scotland's genesis can be traced back to these ancient landmasses: Rodinia, Pannotia, and Pangaea.

Rodinia (1.3 billion - 900 million years ago)

The story of Scotland begins with Rodinia, a supercontinent that existed during the Proterozoic Eon. During the time of Rodinia, what is now the Scottish Highlands was part of the continent Laurentia, which also included parts of North America. As Rodinia broke apart around 900 million years ago, Laurentia separated from other landmasses, setting the stage for Scotland's early geological development.

Pannotia (600 million - 540 million years ago)

Following the breakup of Rodinia, the continents reassembled into another supercontinent called Pannotia. This relatively short-lived supercontinent experienced substantial geological activity, which played a crucial role in forming Scotland's landmass. The erosion and deposition of sediments during Pannotia's existence led to the formation of the Torridonian sandstone, a significant rock type found in the Northwest Highlands of Scotland.

Pangaea (335 million - 175 million years ago)

Pangaea, the last supercontinent, significantly impacted the formation of Scotland as we know it today. As the Iapetus Ocean, which separated Laurentia from the continent of Avalonia, began to close around 400 million years ago, the two landmasses collided, forming the Caledonian mountain range, which runs through present-day Scotland. This event, known as the Caledonian Orogeny, brought together the distinct geological terrains of the Highlands and the Lowlands, forging the Scottish landscape we recognise today.

In conclusion, the formation of Scotland is intrinsically linked to the birth and demise of ancient supercontinents. From Rodinia to Pannotia and, ultimately, Pangaea, these massive landmasses played a crucial role in shaping the geography of Scotland.

James Hutton was a famous geologist from Scotland; he used rocks seen at Arthur's Seat in central Edinburgh to posit his theory on ancient Earth. These rocks can still be seen at Salisbury Crags, a short walk from the bustling high street.

Prehistoric Scotland

While the geological journey gives us a glimpse into the ancient roots of Scotland's land, the archaeological evidence from the Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods marks the dawn of human habitation in the region.

Palaeolithic Period (Approximately 33,000–10,000 BC)

The Paleolithic, or Old Stone Age, in Scotland, is marked by the earliest evidence of human presence in the area. However, the archaeological record from this period is sparse, partly because of the repeated glaciations that likely wiped out human settlements. Some of the most compelling evidence of Paleolithic habitation comes from Howburn Farm in South Lanarkshire, where a collection of stone tools linked to the Hamburgian culture, common in Central and Eastern Europe, were discovered. These artefacts suggest that small groups of hunter-gatherers ventured into Scotland around 14,000 years ago when the ice sheets started to recede.

Mesolithic Period (Approximately 10,000–4000 BC)

The end of the last Ice Age marked the beginning of Scotland's Mesolithic, or Middle Stone Age. As the ice retreated, forests and swamps replaced it, and Scotland became a more hospitable place for humans. Mesolithic communities were characterised by small, mobile groups of hunter-gatherers who exploited the rich resources provided by the forests, rivers, and coasts.

One of the best-studied Mesolithic sites in Scotland is the Oronsay Prehistoric Woodland, found on a small island in the Inner Hebrides. Archaeologists have discovered numerous shell middens (ancient waste dumps), which contain shells, fish bones, other organic materials, and stone tools. This evidence suggests that the people living in Oronsay were adept at exploiting marine resources.

Another important site is at Cramond, near Edinburgh, where a Mesolithic hut dating back to around 8500 BC was discovered. This is one of the oldest known dwellings in Scotland, providing invaluable insights into the living conditions of the earliest Scots.

While the archaeological record for these periods in Scotland is not as rich as for later times, these early artefacts provide a crucial glimpse into the earliest chapters of human life on the Scottish landscape, setting the stage for the dramatic changes that the Neolithic Revolution would bring.

The Neolithic Revolution and Its Impact in Scotland

The Neolithic Revolution, which took place around 4000 BC, marked a significant turning point in human history in Scotland. This period saw the transition from a nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyle to a more settled, farming-based way of life. This transition brought about monumental changes in society, leading to the establishment of permanent settlements, advancements in tool-making, and the birth of complex societal structures.

Skara Brae

One of the most remarkable Neolithic settlements in Scotland, indeed in all of Europe, is Skara Brae, located on the Bay of Skaill on the west coast of mainland Orkney. Discovered in 1850 after a storm uncovered the site, Skara Brae provides a remarkably well-preserved glimpse into Neolithic life. The stone-built settlement consisted of eight clustered houses and was occupied from roughly 3180 BC–2500 BC. Each circular house shares a similar design, featuring a large square room with a central hearth, beds constructed of stone, and a shelved dresser where prized possessions might have been displayed. The fact that the houses were embedded into mounds of pre-existing waste material, known as "midden," provided natural insulation against Orkney's harsh winter climate.

Standing Stones

Scotland's Neolithic period also saw the construction of impressive megalithic monuments. Near Skara Brae, the Standing Stones of Stenness is a notable example. This stone circle was likely a communal gathering place, possibly used for rituals or ceremonies. Similarly, the Ring of Brodgar, a Neolithic henge and stone circle also on the Orkney Islands, exhibits the architectural ingenuity of the era.

Standing stones of a unique type (recumbent stone circles) can be found all over Aberdeenshire in northeast Scotland, many of which are over 4000 years old.

Another significant Neolithic site is the Knap of Howar on the island of Papa Westray, also part of the Orkney archipelago. This farmstead, consisting of two stone-built houses, is considered one of the oldest preserved houses in northern Europe, dating back to around 3700 BC.

Scotland's Neolithic period was a time of dramatic societal and technological change. The transition from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to settled farming led to significant developments in agriculture, architecture, and societal organisation. The exceptional preservation of sites like Skara Brae and the Knap of Howar allows us to step back in time and experience a world on the cusp of a new era in human history.

The Bronze Age and Iron Age in Scotland

Following the Neolithic period, Scotland's history advanced into the Bronze Age (around 2000 BC - 800 BC) and the Iron Age (around 800 BC-AD 400). Significant technological advancements, social changes, and shifts in the cultural landscape characterised these eras.

The Bronze Age

The Bronze Age in Scotland saw the development of metalworking skills, primarily focusing on producing bronze tools and weapons. Copper and tin, the main components of bronze, were imported from Ireland and England and possibly as far away as Spain. This indicates that Bronze Age Scots were part of a broader trade and exchange network. The era is also notable for constructing monuments such as stone circles, henges, and burial cairns, suggesting a complex system of ritual and belief.

Artefacts from this period include beautiful examples of craftsmanship, like the Migdale Hoard, discovered in Sutherland in the Scottish Highlands, which features intricately decorated bronze objects and a carved stone ball. This period also saw the development of 'Beaker Culture', characterised by the use of distinctive pottery vessels and a shift towards single burial practices.

The Iron Age

The introduction of ironworking marked the beginning of the Iron Age. Iron was more abundant and durable than bronze, leading to advancements in agriculture and warfare. During this period, there was a significant change in the nature of settlements with the emergence of hillforts and brochs.

One of the most iconic structures from this period are the brochs—tall, round, dry-stone towers found mainly in northern Scotland. The best preserved of these is the Broch of Mousa in Shetland, which stands at an impressive 13 meters tall. These structures likely served both as status symbols and as defensive structures.

My family and I explored Carn Liath Broch just north of Golspie in 2022, an excellent example of an ancient stone broch.

The Iron Age in Scotland is also notable for the presence of the Celtic culture. The Picts, one of the Celtic peoples who lived in what is today eastern and northern Scotland, are famous for their carved stones and crosses, which they used to record their achievements and ancestry.

Scotland underwent significant cultural and technological changes throughout the Bronze Age and Iron Age. These periods laid the foundation for the complex society that would continue to evolve and eventually form the Scotland we know today.

Scotland in the Roman Era

The Romans had a significant impact on many parts of Britain; their influence in Scotland was less pronounced due to the region's challenging terrain and the fierce resistance of its inhabitants. Why didn't the Romans invade Scotland? However, they did leave several remarkable landmarks and relics that give us an insight into this period of Scottish history.

The Romans first attempted to invade Scotland under the command of Agricola in AD 79-80, leading to the establishment of a frontier system known as the Gask Ridge. Located in Perthshire, this early Roman frontier comprised a chain of watchtowers and forts built to monitor and control movement through the area. The Gask Ridge is considered one of Britain's earliest Roman land frontiers.

The most significant Roman construction in Scotland is undoubtedly the Antonine Wall. Built around AD 142 under the orders of Emperor Antoninus Pius, this turf fortification represented the northernmost frontier barrier of the Roman Empire. Stretching approximately 63 kilometres (39 miles) from the Firth of Forth to the Firth of Clyde, the Antonine Wall consisted of a turf rampart, a deep ditch, and a road known as the Military Way. Along the wall, a series of forts housed the Roman troops stationed to guard the frontier.

Despite these substantial fortifications, the Romans struggled to control the territory north of the wall. By AD 162, they had abandoned the Antonine Wall and retreated to Hadrian's Wall further south.

While the Romans left fewer architectural legacies in Scotland compared to other parts of Britain, smaller relics such as Roman coins, pottery, and other artefacts have been discovered throughout Scotland by budding metal detectorists, particularly near the sites of Roman forts and along the routes of Roman roads. These discoveries provide valuable insights into the period of Roman occupation and the interactions between the Romans and the ancient Scots.

The Formation of the Kingdom of Scotland

Following the departure of the Romans, Scotland entered a new phase of its history, culminating in the formation of the Kingdom of Scotland in the 9th century AD. This era was characterised by the amalgamation of different Celtic cultures and the influence of external forces such as the Vikings.

The Age of the Picts and Scots

In the centuries following the Roman withdrawal, Scotland was divided into several kingdoms inhabited by Picts, Scots, Britons, and Angles. The Picts, known for their unique symbol stones, dominated the north and east, while the Scots, originally migrants from Ireland, established the kingdom of Dál Riata in the west. The Britons held power in the southwest (Strathclyde), and the Angles formed the kingdom of Bernicia in the southeast.

My wife and I visited some lovely Pictish stones at Inveravon near Ballindalloch Castle, a great place to stop if you are driving the A95; Marionburgh Cairn and Stone Circle are also nearby.

The Unification of Scotland

The unification of these diverse kingdoms into a single entity known as Scotland is attributed to Cinaed mac Ailpín (Kenneth MacAlpin) in the mid-9th century. Tradition tells us that MacAlpin, King of the Scots of Dál Riata, became King of Picts and Scots around AD 843, marking the foundation of the Kingdom of Scotland. However, the details surrounding this unification are shrouded in mystery and subject to debate among historians.

The Viking Influence

The Viking Age, beginning in the late 8th century, profoundly impacted Scotland. Viking invasions led to the end of the Pictish identity and facilitated the unification process under the threat of a common enemy. Vikings also settled in various parts of Scotland, influencing culture, language, and place names, particularly in the Northern Isles (Shetland and Orkney) and the Hebrides.

One of my family's favourite places to holiday is Grannie's Heilan' Hame in Embo; the village gets its name from Viking origins, as do the nearby Castles of Skibo and Skelbo.

The formation of the Kingdom of Scotland was a complex and lengthy process marked by political manoeuvring, warfare, and cultural integration. The nation that emerged was a blend of different cultures and peoples, each leaving an indelible mark on Scottish history's tapestry. This united kingdom laid the groundwork for the country that Scotland would become, setting the stage for the triumphs and trials that lay ahead.

Scotland in the Middle Ages

Scotland's Middle Ages, spanning from the 11th to the 15th centuries, were characterised by significant changes in political structure, cultural transformation, and several key historical events. This period saw the consolidation of the Kingdom of Scotland, the development of a distinctive Scottish culture, and the struggle for autonomy against English domination.

Norman Influence and Feudal Scotland

In the 11th and 12th centuries, Scotland underwent a process of 'feudalisation'. The reign of David I (1124–1153) was particularly transformative as he introduced a system of land tenure and law enforcement modelled on Norman, or feudal, customs. This period also saw an influx of Norman-Scottish nobles who became part of the Scottish aristocracy, significantly influencing Scotland's culture, architecture, and governance.

Scottish Independence Wars

The late 13th and early 14th centuries were marked by a series of conflicts known as the Wars of Scottish Independence. The death of Alexander III in 1286 and his heir Margaret, Maid of Norway, in 1290 left Scotland without a clear successor, leading to a period of interregnum known as the 'Great Cause'. Edward I of England was asked to arbitrate but used the opportunity to assert his dominance over Scotland.

Robert the Bruce and William Wallace

The First War of Independence (1296–1328) saw iconic figures like William Wallace and Robert the Bruce emerge. The most significant event was the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, where Robert the Bruce's forces secured a vital victory over the English and King Edward II. The war concluded with the Treaty of Edinburgh-Northampton in 1328, which recognised Scotland as an independent nation and Robert the Bruce as its king.

Late Middle Ages

The late Middle Ages were a period of relative instability for Scotland, characterised by dynastic conflicts and ongoing tensions with England. However, it was also a time of cultural and intellectual flourishing. The founding of the University of St. Andrews in 1413, followed by the University of Glasgow in 1451 and the University of Aberdeen in 1495, positioned Scotland at the forefront of intellectual and cultural development in Europe.

The Middle Ages was a transformative period for Scotland, laying much of the groundwork for the nation's future. From the establishment of feudal systems to the fight for independence and the cultural flourishing of the Late Middle Ages, this period was a crucial chapter in shaping Scotland.

The Union of the Crowns and the Act of Union

The early modern period of Scottish history is marked by two pivotal events: the Union of the Crowns in 1603 and the Act of Union in 1707. These events brought about the political unification of Scotland with England and Wales, marking a significant shift in Scotland's status and identity.

The Union of the Crowns (1603)

The Union of the Crowns took place in 1603 when King James VI of Scotland also became James I of England and Ireland following the death of his cousin, Queen Elizabeth I. This personal union meant that while Scotland and England retained their parliaments, laws, and institutions, they shared a monarch. This was a significant milestone in the history of the British Isles, leading to a century of complex and often strained political relations.

The Act of Union (1707)

Over a century later, the Act of Union of 1707 led to the political unification of Scotland and England. This act was ratified by both the Scottish and English parliaments, leading to the formation of the Kingdom of Great Britain. This new entity had a single parliament, the Parliament of Great Britain, in Westminster, London.

Several factors contributed to the passing of the Act of Union. For Scotland, the disastrous Darien Scheme—an attempt to establish a colony on the Isthmus of Panama—had ruined the country financially, and union with England promised economic stability. For England, a unified kingdom offered enhanced security and prevented the possibility of Scotland allying with other European powers, particularly France.

The Act of Union proved controversial in Scotland, prompting widespread protest. Many felt that it compromised Scotland's sovereignty. However, it also opened up new economic opportunities, granting Scottish merchants access to England's global trade network.

The Union of the Crowns and the Act of Union have had far-reaching implications for Scotland's identity, governance, and international relations. While these unions were contentious and, at times, fraught with tension, they have shaped the British Isles' political landscape and played a crucial role in Scotland's history and development.

The Jacobite Rebellions & Bonnie Prince Charlie

The Jacobite Rebellions were a series of uprisings, wars, and plots that took place primarily in Scotland between 1688 and 1746, to restore the deposed James II of England (VII of Scotland) and his descendants to the throne. The Jacobites were supporters of James, who had been deposed in the Glorious Revolution of 1688.

The most famous of these rebellions is the 'Forty-Five' Rebellion of 1745-1746, led by Charles Edward Stuart, better known as Bonnie Prince Charlie or the Young Pretender. Charles was the grandson of the deposed James II and VII.

Bonnie Prince Charlie landed in Scotland in July 1745, rallying Highland clans to the Jacobite cause. In September 1745, the Jacobite forces took Edinburgh (although the castle held out against them) and then defeated the British army at the Battle of Prestonpans. After this victory, the Jacobites, still led by Charles, marched into England, aiming to take the throne.

However, they met with little English support and active resistance. When they reached Derby, just 120 miles from London, they decided to turn back due to a lack of sufficient reinforcements and the threat of large government forces.

The Jacobite cause ended at the Battle of Culloden in April 1746, where the Duke of Cumberland's government forces crushed the Jacobite army. It was the last pitched battle fought on British soil. After the battle, Bonnie Prince Charlie escaped to the Western Isles, famously aided by Flora MacDonald. He was eventually picked up by a French ship and spent the rest of his life in Rome, never returning to Scotland.

The aftermath of the rebellion was brutal, with repressive measures taken to suppress the clan system and Gaelic culture in the Scottish Highlands. Fort George was constructed to police the Highlands against future Jacobite uprisings. This period marked a significant turning point in Scottish history, leading to the further integration of Scotland into the British state.

Modern Scotland

The modern era of Scotland, spanning from the 18th century to the present, has been characterised by significant social, political, and economic transformation. This period saw Scotland emerge as a global leader in industry and innovation, grapple with political and cultural identity, and assert its distinctive voice within the United Kingdom.

The Scottish Enlightenment

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Scotland became a vibrant centre of intellectual and scientific accomplishments known as the Scottish Enlightenment. Prominent thinkers such as Adam Smith, David Hume, and James Watt made groundbreaking contributions in fields as diverse as economics, philosophy, engineering, and sociology. The Scottish Enlightenment profoundly impacted many aspects of Western society, influencing the ideas of representative democracy and sparking advancements in science, economics, and industry.

Many of the modern world's best inventions, including the bicycle, colour photography and refrigeration, were developed in Scotland during this time. Robert Burns, Scotland's national bard, was also writing his best work in the late 1700s. The writer Sir Walter Scott was one of Edinburgh's most famous residents.

The Industrial Revolution

Scotland played a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries. Cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh became hubs of industry, excelling particularly in shipbuilding, textiles, and engineering. The period was marked by rapid urbanisation, population growth, and social change. Despite the economic progress, it also brought about significant social challenges, including urban poverty and harsh working conditions.

Home Rule and Devolution - The Scottish Parliament

The 20th and 21st centuries have seen a strong push for greater autonomy for Scotland. The campaign for 'home rule' gained momentum throughout the 20th century, culminating in the establishment of the Scottish Parliament in 1999. Devolution restored a separate Scottish legislature for the first time since the Act of Union in 1707, granting it powers over areas like health, education, and local government.

The Scottish National Party has been in power since 2007 and politically manoeuvred a referendum on Scotland's independence in 2014.

The Independence Referendum

Scotland's political landscape was significantly altered with the independence referendum of 2014. Although the vote did not favour independence, 55% of voters opting to remain in the United Kingdom sparked a renewed debate about Scotland's constitutional status and future within the Union.

Following the United Kingdom voting to leave the European Union, despite Scotland voting to remain again reopened the question - Should Scotland be an independent country?

Modern Scotland is a vibrant, dynamic nation that continues to grapple with questions of identity and autonomy.

FAQs on Scotland's age

Here are a few frequently asked questions about Scotland's history and age.

How old is Scotland as a country?

As a recognisable political entity, Scotland dates back to the mid-9th century AD with the unification of the Scots and Picts under King Kenneth MacAlpin. However, the nation of Scotland, as we know it today, was largely shaped by the Act of Union in 1707, which joined Scotland and England into a single Kingdom of Great Britain.

How old is the land of Scotland?

The land that makes up Scotland is ancient, with its geological formation dating back over 3 billion years. This process involved ancient supercontinents like Rodinia, Pannotia, and Pangaea.

The Lewisian rocks on the northwest coast are regarded as the oldest in Scotland, at the top end of the scale - 3 billion years old (3000 million!).

Is Scotland older than England?

As a nation, yes, although England had kingdoms predating King Æthelstan, Scotland was a unified nation before England.

When did humans first inhabit Scotland?

Evidence of human habitation in Scotland dates back to the Paleolithic era, around 14,000 years ago, following the retreat of the ice sheets from the last Ice Age. However, permanent settlements only became widespread with the advent of the Neolithic revolution around 6,000 years ago.

What was Scotland before it was Scotland?

Before Scotland was known as Scotland, the land was inhabited by several different Celtic tribes:

• The Picts

• The Scots

• The Britons

• The Angles

King Kenneth Macalpine united all the people of Scotland as we know it in the 9th century AD.

What was the impact of the Romans on Scotland?

The Romans had a significant but relatively short-lived influence on Scotland. They never fully conquered Scotland, but their presence, marked by constructions in central Scotland such as the Antonine Wall and the Gask Ridge, impacted the local culture and political landscape.

When was the Kingdom of Scotland formed?

The Kingdom of Scotland was formed in the mid-9th century, traditionally attributed to King Kenneth MacAlpin around AD 843. This marked the unification of the Scots and Picts, laying the foundation for the country of Scotland.

What was the Union of the Crowns and the Act of Union?

The Union of the Crowns in 1603 was a personal union that occurred when James VI of Scotland also became James I of England and Ireland. The Act of Union in 1707 was a political union that merged the Kingdoms of Scotland and England into a single Kingdom of Great Britain.

What is the current political status of Scotland?

Today, Scotland is part of the United Kingdom, including England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. However, it has a devolved government with a separate Scottish Parliament with authority over certain domestic matters. The question of Scottish independence has been an important topic of discussion, particularly since the independence referendum of 2014. Why does Scotland want independence?

Key information on Scotland's age

• Scotland's geographical formation dates back to ancient supercontinents Rodinia, Pannotia, and Pangaea, making the landmass over 3 billion years old.

• Human habitation in Scotland can be traced back to the Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods, with evidence of hunter-gatherer communities.

• The Neolithic revolution introduced agriculture and permanent settlements, like Skara Brae, into Scottish society.

• The Bronze Age and Iron Age saw significant advancements in technology, society, and culture, establishing complex structures like brochs.

• The Romans had a temporary but influential presence in Scotland, leaving behind constructions like the Antonine Wall and the Gask Ridge.

• The Kingdom of Scotland was formed in the 9th century, uniting several different Celtic cultures and marking the start of Scotland as a recognisable political entity.

• The Middle Ages in Scotland were characterised by feudalisation, the Wars of Scottish Independence, and an intellectual awakening.

• The Union of the Crowns in 1603 and the Act of Union in 1707 brought about the political unification of Scotland with England and Wales.

• Modern Scotland has seen significant social, political, and economic transformations, becoming a global leader in industry and innovation during the Industrial Revolution and the Scottish Enlightenment.

• The 20th and 21st centuries have been marked by a push for greater autonomy, with the establishment of the Scottish Parliament and the independence referendum of 2014.

Conclusion - Scottish History

So there we have it; Scotland is geographically around 3 billion years old, but the nation of Scotland itself is roughly 1100 years old. Despite being one of the longer articles on this website, this is just a brief snapshot of Scottish history. I hope to write more about many of the subjects touched on here in future articles.