Short courses

Summary

The turbulent years between the coronation of James VI and the Union with England radically changed Scotland, and the results are still being felt today. The absentee James VI of Scotland – and I of England – provoked a bloody civil war that led to the religious rule of the Covenanters, which in turn prompted an invasion by Cromwell. The subsequent restoration of the Stuarts, coronation of William of Orange and rise of Jacobitism deeply affected the country, culminating in the Parliamentary Union of 1707. This is a time period much fictionalised and mythologised in books, TV and film, but how did all these dramatic events really unfold? Who were the key players and was the Parliamentary Union inevitable? 

Whether you are interested in the history of Scotland, the events leading to the Union, parliamentary and republican politics, or how 17th century continues to shape our world, take this course to see the bigger picture of these dramatic events and their consequences. 

Over a series of talks our expert tutor will explain: 

• the key events and figures from Scottish history during this turbulent period 
• how Scotland was governed under kings, Covenanters and Cromwell 
• key evidence from these events and later historical perspectives and debates 

You will also have the chance to discuss and reflect on what you learn with other students and the tutor in seminars 

Choose this course if you want to learn: 

• how the people of Scotland reacted to the dramatic changes in styles of government in the 17th century 
• how events in Scotland and England led to the Union of the two countries in 1707