Eve Passman, Staff Writer
Scottish voters have decided that Scotland will remain a part of the United Kingdom. In this historic election, “no” voters have dispelled hopes of Scottish independence, at least temporarily. At approximately 5:30 a.m., on September 18th, with only 26 of the 32 voting districts’ votes reported, the decision was clear; the 307 year old union between Great Britain and Scotland would remain, with the support of 55% of voters.
This election came at a time when Scots have experienced one of the most impassioned and successful campaigns for independence in their history. Many Scottish “yes” voters viewed this referendum not only as a pride based vote to restore Scotland to its rightful position as a sovereign nation, but as the ideal opportunity to secure many Scottish viewpoints’ place in the Scottish government.
Many voters hoped that by achieving independence they would eradicate the influence of the Conservative Party, who currently hold the power in the British government. This comes as no surprise, considering the fact that many working class Scots were negatively influenced by this party’s decision to slash welfare benefits and cut public service jobs. As a result, the Scottish voters consistently favor the left leaning Labour Party.
In addition, many Scots contended that autonomy would improve their economy. By controlling their resources, such as oil, they argued, they will be more effective managers than England has been in the past.
The prospect of achieving independence has impassioned a new generation of Scots to become involved in their country’s future. In fact, an impressive 97% of Scots registered to vote for this monumental referendum.
At Newtown High School, some people had a different viewpoint. “I wouldn't have voted for independence, there is a over 300 years of history in the bond between Scotland and the UK, and I wouldn’t want to throw that away and risk the economy, defense, and social structure of Scotland on independence that wouldn’t necessarily provide any benefit,” NHS junior Abbie Kohler said.
Despite the successful campaign against Scottish sovereignty, the reinvigorated spirit of Scottish patriotism requires that England act. British Prime Minister David Cameron had promised Scottish voters before the election that he would bestow more rights upon Scotland if they remained in the union. These expanded rights, at minimum, would include broader powers over social benefits and taxation by January 2015.
Although the United Kingdom intends to expand certain powers wielded by Scotland, others, such as monetary policy and national security matters will remain in British hands. This matter, undoubtedly, will continue to irk many Scots in the future.
But the wound imparted by this decision is not only political for Scottish independent seekers. This decision has marked Scotland with disappointment and divisions that could not be diminished overnight. “I’m deeply disappointed like thousands across the country,” Nicola Sturgeon, a leader of the Scottish Nationalist Party told TIME Magazine.
Not everyone shared the same mindset as Sturgeon. Many people following the story believed that the Scots made the right decision. “When reading about it I knew it was going to be a close one, but the side that wanted to stay gained some momentum. From what I’ve read, it would’ve been a disaster for Scotland to have left. Economically, I think it was the right thing to do,” NHS History teacher David Foss said.
However, in Scotland, some independence seekers can’t be moved. Many voters who supported Scottish independence continue to hang their “Yes” signs, affirming their political views, which were on display at reconciliation rally in Glasgow on September 19th. Despite the pleas of several prominent British leaders such as former Prime Minister Gordon Brown for Scots to reunite, 11 people were arrested during Friday’s rally. However, these offences were non-violent, and not representative of the crowd at large.
Although Scottish independence seekers have lost the battle for independence, their political views have seen growing in popularity. Prior to the referendum, the Scottish Nationalist Party had 25,000 members. However, they now boast 37,000 members.
The Scottish Nationalist Party is just one of the left winged political parties expanding due to the referendum. Organizations such as Women for Independence, the Green Party, and the Scottish Labour Party all claim to have gained significant amounts of new members post referendum.
These parties serve as a glaring reminder to British officials that they must act in order to promote happiness, and peace within its dominion.
For now, the division in Scotland remains distinct. However, the Scottish people are hopeful that they will resolve their tensions eventually, and they will do so as the rest of the world looks on.
Photo Credit; youtube.com
