September 17, 2014
Scotland holds a referendum on independence from the United Kingdom, with 55% voting to remain part of the UK.
Edinburgh, United Kingdom | Scottish Government
On September 18, 2014, Scotland held a historic referendum to decide whether it should become an independent country, separate from the United Kingdom. This event marked a significant moment in Scottish and British history, as it was the first time the people of Scotland were given the opportunity to vote on their nation’s independence since the Acts of Union in 1707.
The referendum was the result of a long-standing debate over Scottish independence, which gained momentum in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The Scottish National Party (SNP), led by First Minister Alex Salmond, was a major proponent of independence. The SNP’s victory in the 2011 Scottish Parliament election, where they secured a majority, paved the way for the referendum.
In 2012, the Edinburgh Agreement was signed by the UK Prime Minister David Cameron and First Minister Alex Salmond, which set the terms for the referendum. It was agreed that the referendum would be a one-question vote: “Should Scotland be an independent country?”
Two main campaigns emerged:
Yes Scotland: Advocated for independence, arguing that Scotland should have full control over its affairs, including economic policies, welfare, and international relations. They emphasized the potential for a more prosperous and fair society.
Better Together: Opposed independence, highlighting the benefits of remaining in the UK, such as economic stability, shared resources, and international influence. This campaign was supported by major UK political parties, including Labour, the Conservatives, and the Liberal Democrats.
On the day of the referendum, a record turnout of 84.6% of eligible voters participated, reflecting the high level of public engagement and interest in the decision. The result was:
The decision to remain part of the UK had several immediate and long-term consequences:
Political Reforms: In response to the referendum, the UK government promised further devolution of powers to the Scottish Parliament, leading to the Scotland Act 2016, which granted more autonomy in areas such as taxation and welfare.
Continued Debate: The issue of Scottish independence did not disappear. The SNP, under the leadership of Nicola Sturgeon, continued to advocate for independence, especially in the context of Brexit, which Scotland voted against in 2016.
Cultural Impact: The referendum sparked a renewed interest in Scottish identity and politics, influencing cultural and social discourse in Scotland and beyond.
The 2014 referendum was a landmark event in the history of the UK, showcasing the democratic process and the complexities of national identity. It highlighted the challenges of balancing regional autonomy with national unity and set a precedent for how such issues might be addressed in the future.
Source: www.gov.scot