Scottish Nationalist Leaflets, 1844-1973

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Scottish Nationalist Leaflets, 1844-1973

A black and white photo of the Statue of Robert the Bruce at Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument is seen in the distance.

Pamphlets relating to Scottish Nationalism, 1844–1973

Scotland’s beautiful land still remains a rich asset awaiting the day when the Scottish people recover the inheritance of which they have been defrauded.

Scotlandshire by Oliver Brown, 1945, page 29

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Study nationalist research into the viability of an independent Scotland

A black and white image of Glasgow's Necropolis, sited on a hill near the city centre, which is the resting place of many famous Scots.

The 1707 Acts of Union united the Scottish and English Parliaments to form the Parliament of Great Britain in the Palace of Westminster. Thenceforth Scottish citizens have debated the viability of an independent Scotland.

Documents in this collection contain a wealth of information on the subject of Scottish independence, including: the effect on international relations; financial policy proposals; pamphlets from the Scottish National Party; and the revival of Scottish cultural independence.

This collection charts the growth of Scottish nationalism, and subsequent calls for independence, from the mid-nineteenth to the late twentieth century. This is an excellent resource for those interested in studying the history of what is set to be a dominant political movement in the twenty-first century.

Highlights

First page of the Policy of The National Party.

Licensed to access National Party of Scot Inspiration, Policy and Aims, 1928–1966

This document details the origins of the Scottish National Party (SNP), including its original aims, inspiration, and constitution.

Front cover of The Rebels Ceilidh Song Book, featuring a cartoon depicting different people moving around and playing instruments, and a British policeman blowing his whistle.

Licensed to access Scots and Rebel Songs, 1941–1971

These songbooks reflect the turbulent, ever-changing landscape of Scottish society, identity, and politics. Detailed contextual notes and song descriptions provide valuable insight into the pride the authors shared in their heritage.

Cartoon titled No Good for a Nation, by James Martin, depicting several English counties as children and Scotland as an adult man, all lining up to receive a handout from The Mother of Parliaments. A child labelled London stands smugly beside the Mother.

Licensed to access British Government accused of neglecting Scotland, 1854–1964

This document includes pamphlets criticising the British government’s treatment of Scotland, including accusations that Scotland was not benefiting equitably from government spending.

Cartoon depicting several upper-class people walking away from a grand-looking building next to a Bank, with a title reading by Douglas Young.

Licensed to access Young, Douglas, 1942–1945

This document includes pamphlets written by Douglas Young, leader of the Scottish National Party between 1942 and 1945. During the Second World War, Young refused to register either for military service or as a conscientious objector, arguing that the British government did not have the authority to force Scots to serve in the British military.

Insights

Critiques of the British Parliament include accusations that Scotland was not benefiting equitably from government spending. Consequently it was claimed that Scotland was not treated as an equal partner in the Union.
This collection contains pamphlets authored by influential Scots: Archie Lamont, Oliver Brown, Robert Gayre, Hugh MacDiarmid, William Mitchell, and Douglas Young. Pamphlets were published from the mid-nineteenth century to the late-twentieth century.
Documents in this collection explore how an independent Scotland might be able to function. They discuss oil, industry, and blueprints for self-government.
This collection contains a wealth of cultural material, including “Rebel Songbooks” and Scottish literature. “The Culture of the Scots: its Past and Future, 1943” was written by William Power. Power was an author, journalist, and leader of the Scottish National Party from 1940 to 1942.

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A well-dressed plantation owner and family visiting the slave quarters in Virginia

Licensed to access Scottish Trade with Africa and the West Indies in the Early 18th century, 1694-1709

1694 1709

Roundheads breaking into the home of a royalist. A group of men are tied up.

Licensed to access British Parliamentary History, 1102-1803

1102 1803

Social Liberal Democrats at the party launch, March 1988

Licensed to access Liberal Party from Asquith to Ashdown, 1912-1988

1912 1988