One way and another – be it through books, myths, buildings, songs, or political struggles – Scotland’s past has always played a peculiarly dynamic role in its present, even if Scots themselves are often the first to deplore the long-time dearth of Scottish history teaching in schools.

Whether as a source of escapist nostalgia or inspirational precdent, Scotland's turbulent and colourful history is as central to its sense of itself as it is to the heritage industry.