With one day to go, the world is watching the tension ramp up in Scotland before they vote on Thursday to potentially leave the UK. Big deal, you say? Scotland has been a part of the UK since its inception in 1707. You know all those history books who just glibly mention the end on an empire– “oh this empire lasted 400 years.” That’s all well and nice until you witness the end of an empire. The questions that surround it are gigantic. If Scotland leaves the UK, it changes the UK flag, the economy, citizenship rights , trade and taxes, and the ease of crossing borders–to name a few.
When I was touring England with my now-husband, we zoomed into Scotland on a road unmarked by any border signs and were surrounded by sheep that wandered the fields. That will change if Scotland votes yes. Scotland will have to have their own military, banking systems and currency, their own foreign policies, and their own military equipment which is not supplied by the Kingdom. Scotland’s independence from the UK is not an easy task. They are embarking on a hard journey.
Let’s not fail to remember that with such a stand being taken, all the little eyes are on the “big kids.” Catalonia within Spain is looking for a similar vote in November. They’re watching how the cookie crumbles and Spain is as happy about it as the rest of the UK is. The only catch is that Spain’s government must vote on the legality of the separation and that’s not looking too promising.
In an age of integration, the world watches in fascination those who are willing to step out from the fold amidst the disapproval of the herd. And it is certainly interesting to see unification so widely championed in a Western culture of individualism. Just so you know, I have not taken a side on the debate. I could go into great detail about my British husband’s thoughts on the matter, but all I can do is stand back amazed that Thursday may truly be the end of 307 year kingdom. Every day is history in the making.
What are your thoughts on the matter? Do you think Scotland will leave the UK? Or will they vote to stay in and keep the status quo? Should Scotland independence be supported or discouraged?
