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The mystery of Scotland's national anthem: why is there still no official answer?
Even though Scotland has a long culture and rich musical tradition, it has so far been unable to formalize its national anthem. Although songs such as "Flower of Scotland" and "Brave Scotland" are often used as the de facto national anthem at various sporting events and important national occasions, these songs have not achieved formal official status. The Scottish Government stated in 2015 that it had no "current plans" to develop an official national anthem. This situation raises all sorts of questions, making people wonder why there is still no consensus on such an important cultural icon despite so many years of controversy.
“Scotland’s national anthem should be an iconic song for everyone, embracing our diverse culture and traditions.”
Although the Scottish Parliament legally has the ability to choose the national anthem, there have been discussions and petitions on this issue historically. In 2004, the Scottish Parliament's legal advisers ruled in an independent opinion that the decision was not a matter exclusively for the British Parliament, a ruling that sparked interest in the national anthem. However, whether it is "Scotland of Flowers" or "Scotland of the Brave", there are always differences of opinion in the society about the selection of these songs.
Current status
Scotland of Flowers
Today, "Scotland of Flowers" is often regarded as Scotland's national anthem, especially at various sporting events. The song is often cited as the official pre-match music for the Scottish national football, cricket and rugby teams. At the 2010 Commonwealth Games, "Scotland of Flowers" replaced "Scotland of the Brave" as Scotland's national anthem of victory.
The song was written in the 1960s by Roy Williamson, a member of the folk group the Corries, and has been used by the Scottish rugby team since 1974. Over time, this song gradually became one of the symbols of the Scottish sports team and was deeply loved by athletes and audiences.
Brave Scotland
"Brave Scotland" was used by the Scottish team during the Commonwealth Games until it was replaced by "Flower Scotland" in 2010. Between 1958 and 2006, the song appeared in numerous events. In response, the players chose a new national anthem in 2010, demonstrating the athletes' desire to inspire the team with a more representative song.
The Scottish Government’s position
As of February 2024, the Scottish Government still has not been able to officially endorse any national anthem, even if it has the legal ability to do so. In 2006, discussions about the national anthem reappeared in the Scottish Parliament. No matter from a cultural or political perspective, all sectors of society seemed to be unable to reach a consensus on this topic. This situation has given rise to thinking and discussion about Scottish identity.
“In terms of national anthem, Scotland needs a song that represents everyone and is inclusive of multiple cultures.”
Petition for National Anthem
In January 2015, the Scottish Parliament heard evidence from a citizen, Chris Cromar, who petitioned the government to formally recognize "Scotland of Flowers". The Scottish Football Association also responded to this, but they believed that the choice should be made by a wider group and conducted a poll, which showed that everyone had mixed reactions to the choice of national anthem.
Possible candidate songs
In an online poll conducted by the Royal National Orchestra of Scotland in 2006, "Scotland of Flowers" topped the list, winning 41% of the votes. Other proposed songs include Robert Burns' "Old Friends Reunion" and Hamish Henderson's "Come Free". Although these traditional songs come from different eras, they can still arouse people's resonance and emotions.
"Why don't we have a national anthem that truly unites all of Scotland?"
As time goes by, this topic continues to attract people's attention and discussion. Whether Scotland can find a true national anthem in the future that can become the common pride of all people is still a question that needs to be answered.
