Ten years on from the Scottish independence referendum

Ten years ago, Scotland voted to remain a part of the United Kingdom on one of the momentous days in its history. The No Campaign won the vote by 55 per cent to 45, bringing an end to nearly two years of fierce campaigning on both sides.

The period in the lead up to the referendum vote on 18 September 2014 saw unparalleled levels of political engagement in Scotland; over 3.6 million people voted, representing a turnout of almost 85 per cent, which supported claims that it was Scotland’s biggest decision for hundreds of years. However, the legacy it has had on Scotland to this day is perhaps not so edifying.

Following the Edinburgh Agreement struck between then Prime Minister David Cameron and Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond in late 2012, almost two years of fierce campaigning ensued, with Salmond and deputy Nicola Sturgeon leading the Yes campaign, and Alistair Darling leading the No Thanks equivalent.