Scotland's history has been badly served over the years. Defined by its
relationship to England, Scotland's popular history is full of near-mythical
figures and tragic events, her past littered with defeat, failure and
thwarted ambition. The martyrdom of William Wallace, the tragedy of Mary
Queen of Scots and the forlorn cause of Bonnie Prince Charlie all give the
impression of 'poor' Scotland; a victim of misfortune, leading to the
country's inevitable submission to the Auld Enemy. After the Union in 1707,
Scotland's increasing reliance on England culminated in a crisis of confidence
and identity that tortures the country to this day. But how accurate is this
version of events? Using the very latest in historical research and by placing
Scotland's story in the wider context of British, European and global history,
some of the myths that pervade the past will be exploded to reveal a Scotland
which forged its own destiny, often with success.

Neil Oliver is a Scottish archaeologist, historian and broadcaster best known
for his distinctive voice and long black hair and as the charismatic presenter
of the award-winning documentary series COAST.

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