The People Of Scotland

Modern-day Scots are the product of an age-old ethnic blend. The original Picts mixed with successive invaders - Celts, Romans, Anglo-Saxons, Scandinavians, Normans - and each group has left its mark on the national culture. In later times, many Irish migrated to the industrial areas in the Central Lowlands. Some immigration from eastern and southern Europe also took place. The Scots cherish the differences that set them apart from the English, and cling tenaciously to the distinctions that also differentiate them region by region - their customs, dialects and the Gaelic language. I, for example, consider myself to be a " Fifer, " having been born and bred in that Kingdom. But even more than that, I consider myself to be a " Dyker, " having been raised in the fishing village of Cellardyke.

It is perhaps more by their differences than similarities that the Scots can be defined, but for all that, they are immensely proud of their nation and its institutions.

Scots can be dour but equally they can flash with inspiration. Most all Scots delight in self-deprecating humour and continue to honour their tradition of hospitality. Generally speaking most foreign tourists to Scotland make the mistake of moving their location every day, and thus denying themselves the opportunity to really get to know some of the locals.

Scots have long been noted for their frugality, which they have exaggerated and turned into jokes about themselves. But perhaps the best-known feature of Scottish society through the ages is that of the clans--groups of families sharing a common ancestor and the same name. Many Scots still feel strong kinship with their clan, and many Scottish traditions have their origins in that system. Scots are a gregarious people and enjoy company, whether this be in a small group in the local pub, or at a Ceilidh ( which means literally, a " visit ".) And Scots love to visit with people from other countries - if you'll give the time.

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