Scotland

TRADITIONS

Bagpipes
It is thought that bagpipes originated in Ancient Egypt around 1,000BC and were brought to Scotland by the Romans. Bagpipes are known to have been played in Scotland in the14th century and current form of the instrument came into being in the 17th century when a third drone was added. The MacCrimmon family of Skye are credited with being key to the popularity of thebagpipes as they invented the most popular "pibroch" form of bagpipe music, composing a great many tunes in the days before the piano came to Britain.
Clans
Clans were extended Scottish families whoclaimed to be derived from a common ancestor. The Clan system came into being in the Highlands of Scotland in the 13th century. Each clan had a chief who, in many ways, was like a feudal lord who coulddemand the support of his clan members. For example, many of the Highlanders who fought for Bonnie Prince Charlie were clan members doing the bidding of their chief. Clans claimed territorial rightsover their part of Scotland and battles between different clans were common. The clain system was largely broken up by the English after Bonnie Prince Charlie's unsuccessful rebellion in the 18thcentury.

Highland Games
Highland Games are one of the great spectacles of Scotland where athletes, musicians and dancers come together to compete for prizes and honour. Most Highland Games featureScottish country dancing and piping competitions as well as foot races and, very often, cycle races. Competition takes place across all age groups from 6 to 60. Perhaps the most popular element of aHighland Games is the heavy events like tossing the caber and throwing the hammer where strong men compete against each other in spectacular trials of strength. Highland Games are held annually in manyScottish towns and villages. A number of Great Scotland members are venues for particularly well known Games.
Kilts
The Scots have worn kilts for centuries but today's kilts look little like those worn...