Product Description

Is the 'United' Kingdom really as united as its name suggests? For many people in the UK, increasing nationalism in Scotland has come as rather a shock, raising questions about what Britain is, and where its future lies. In "The Road to Independence? Scotland since the Sixties", Murray Pittock not only gives an account of modern Scottish nationalism, but also explains what Scotland's role in Britain has been historically, and why it has changed radically in the last fifty years where the debate about independence has come to the fore.The author relates the economic, social and cultural history of Scotland, the rise of modern Scottish nationalism and the reasons for it, the recent history and differing character of Scotland's cities and cultural industries, the impact of multiculturalism on Scottish as distinct from British society, and the changes wrought by devolution, including the reasons for the election of Scotland's first-ever nationalist government in 2007. "The Road to Independence?" is the only history of Scotland available with a truly contemporary focus. In dealing with everything from modern painting to political structures it is remarkably comprehensive; in explaining the rise of modern nationalism it is of great importance to policy-makers and the wider public. It will be of interest to students of politics, history, law and social science, and to all who want to understand the rapidly changing face of Britain.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #392933 in Books
• Published on: 2008-03-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 224 pages

The Scotsman
'This book could hardly be improved on: it's lucid, witty, beautifully written.'

About the Author
Murray Pittock is A. C. Bradley Professor of Literature at Glasgow University and is the author of a number of books on Scottish, Irish and British history, politics and society including Inventing and Resisting Britain (1997), Celtic Identity and the British Image (1999), Scottish Nationality (2001) and A New History of Scotland (2003).

Customer Reviews

Ebb & Flow
Particularly recommended is the second chapter, which provides as convincing an explanation of of the tactical and strategic reasons for the popular ebb and flow of support for the SNP in modern times as I've read.

Excellent Book
For those studying or interested in post war Scotland Murray Pittock's 'The Road to Independence' is an invaluable resource. Pittock leaves no unturned as he appraises a multitude of topics ranging from nationalism, governance and public policy to the changing position of religion in Scottish Society. A central theme throughout the book (hence the title) is the changing circumstances of Scotland's position within the United Kingdom. Pittock presents a clear and insightful appraisal of the variables that have shaped the changing circumstances. The variables acknowledged by Pittock include British state centralisation, the fluctuating status of the nationalist movement in Scotland, social, economic and demographic changes and recent changes in UK governance (most significantly the establishment of the Scottish Parliament and the victory of the SNP in 2007). The book is easy to read and engaging.