The Evolution of Scottish Nationalism: A Growing Sentiment for Independence

Introduction

Scottish nationalism has seen a significant rise in popularity over the years. Before delving into the specifics, it's important to understand the context and history behind this growing movement. The evolution of Scottish nationalism can be traced back to several key events and periods in history, including the Norman invasion, the reign of Oliver Cromwell, and the aftermath of World War II.

The Norman Invasion and Early Nationalism

Before the Norman invasion, Scotland was often cohesive, with a strong identification with its own culture and governance. The Norman invasion in 1066, while bringing about significant cultural and political changes, did not immediately diminish Scottish national identity. In fact, it might have even strengthened it as resistance against foreign rule solidified national sentiments.

Oliver Cromwell and the Interregnum Period

The reign of Oliver Cromwell during the Interregnum period (1649-1660) marked a tumultuous time for Scotland. The British Civil Wars and the rule of the Commonwealth led to internal strife and political instability. Even in these challenging times, Scottish national feelings endured and sometimes even surged as the nation sought to protect its sovereignty.

The Post-WWII Era and the Rise of Scottish Independence

It wasn't until after World War II (W.W.2) that the idea of Scottish independence began to gain significant traction. The late 1940s and 1950s saw a gradual but steady increase in the belief of an independent Scotland. This sentiment was not just a fleeting idea but a growing movement that has since continued to gain ground.

When plotted graphically, the growth in the belief of Scottish independence has risen at an angle of approximately 45 degrees to the baseline since then. This steady upward trend can be observed in various political and social indicators, suggesting a sustained and persistent growth in support for independence.

Numerous 'Notches' Along the Way

Interestingly, this growth has not been a straight line. There have been moments of pause or even slight setbacks, which some termed as "notch backs." These were periods where interest in Scottish independence faltered or slipped, only to recover and continue the upward trajectory. These fluctuations can be attributed to various factors, including economic conditions, political events, and socio-cultural changes.

The Future of Scottish Nationalism

Based on historical patterns and current trends, it appears that the interest in Scottish independence will continue to rise. These "notch backs" have not deterred the overall trajectory of the movement. Instead, they have provided resilience and a sense of perseverance, indicating that the sentiment is likely to continue growing until Scotland achieves independence.

It is crucial for those who have doubts about the current movement to consider the long-term trends rather than recent events. While current political and economic climates can impact public sentiment, the overall direction of Scottish nationalism suggests a sustained and growing belief in an independent Scotland.

Conclusion

The evolution of Scottish nationalism from the early Middle Ages through to the present day is a testament to the enduring strength of Scottish identity. While the path has had its challenges and setbacks, the overall trend towards independence is clear. As Scotland continues to navigate the complexities of modern politics, the future of Scottish nationalism remains bright and promising.