131-216 Scotland: Stateless Nation, 1707-1999

Usually 25 points of first-year history.

This subject is concerned with Scottish history over the past 300 years, from the incorporation of the previously independent Kingdom of Scotland into a United Kingdom with its English neighbour to the restoration of domestic self-government with its own elected Assembly and administration. It considers the transformation of Scotland from an agricultural to an industrial society, the destruction of Gaelic society in the Highlands, and the processes of modernisation that created a highly urbanised nation. Particular attention is paid to the emigration of Scots to Australia and other destinations, and the diffusion of Scottish technology, skills, culture and religion. The student introduces students to the modern history of a nation that was an important contributor to the formation of the Australian nation. It asks students to comprehend the historical processes that shape the nation and nationalism, and how these operate in the absence of a nation-state. The subject engages with the principal secondary accounts of modern Scottish history, as well as primary sources, including documents, historical archaeology, art and literature.

• demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;

• show critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument;

• demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural context through the contextualisation of judgements, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and possibilities and by constructing an argument.

A research essay of 2500 words 65% (due mid semester) and a reflective essay of 1500 words 35% (end of semester).

A subject reader will be available.