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Scotland or, in gaelic Alba, is the northern part of Great Britain, bordering to the south on England. Scotland consists of the mainland area plus several island groups, including the Shetlands, Orkneys and Inner and Outer Hebrides. The bagpipe, kilts and whisky are the perhaps the most recognized cultural items, although shortbread, haggis, Harris tweed, and the clan system are widely recognized. Other cultural events associated with Scotland include Hogmanay and the Burns' supper on Burns' night.

Almost all residents speak English although many speak various Scots dialects which are quite different from Standard English and some few still speak Scots Gaelic. The Scots language, which was spoken in the Scottish Court and Parliament, developed from the Anglican spoken in the Northumbrian kingdom of Bernica which in the 6th century conquered the British kingdom of Gododdin and renamed its capital of Dunedin, Edinburgh.

Scotland is divided into two geographic areas - the Lowlands and the Highlands. These caused cultural divisions in the country where the Lowlands were, historically, more influenced by the English to the South.

The clan system in Scotland was one of its more distinguishing features. It had many similarities to the American Indian tribal system. Notable clans include Campbell, MacGregor, Stewart, MacDonald, MacLeod,...

The four major cities in Scotland in order of size are: Glasgow; Edinburgh, which is the capital; Aberdeen; and Dundee

Regions

Scotland is also known for:

• Loch Ness, said to contain the Loch Ness monster Nessie.
• The soft drink called Irn Bru.
• Deep fried Mars bars
• Scotch whisky

History of Scotland

In 1603 the Scottish King James VI inherited the throne of England, and became James I of England. James moved to London and never returned to Scotland. In 1707 a Treaty of Union was signed between the Scottish and English Parliaments. The English and the Scottish Parliaments were dissolved and all their powers transferred to a new Parliament in London which then became the British Parliament. A customs and currency union was also declared. This state of affairs remained until May 1999 when a new Scottish Parliament was created.

For a list of kings of Scotland see British Monarchs.

see also: National parks (Scotland)