The Modern Scottish Diaspora

Murray Stewart Leith is a Lecturer in Politics at the University of the West of Scotland. He has published articles on national identity, nationalism and Scottish politics, examining the political and social changes wrought by devolution.

'Scotland, a small country for so long embroiled in argument about its future, needs to reach out more effectively to the millions of people - all around the world - who consider themselves partly or wholly Scottish. For anyone looking to understand or connect with our diaspora, this wide-ranging and authoritative book provides a first-rate starting-point.' James Hunter, Emeritus Professor of History at the University of the Highlands and Islands An exploration of modern perspectives on the contemporary Scottish diaspora The Scots form one of the world's largest diasporas, with around 30 million people worldwide claiming a Scottish ancestry. There are few countries around the globe without a Caledonian Society, a Burns Club, a Scottish country dance society or similar organisation. The diaspora is therefore of interest to politicians, to public policy makers and to Scottish business; it is of interest too to those working in the media, in sport, in literature and in music. But material on the connectedness of the diaspora to the homeland in these areas is very hard to find. This book explores a range of different perspectives on the Scottish diaspora, reflecting a growing interest in the subject from academics, politicians and policy makers. The Scottish Government has actively developed a diaspora strategy, not least in order to encourage 'roots tourism', as those individuals of Scots descent come back to visit their 'homeland' diaspora. This book serves to remind us of the continuing importance of those links for Scots both at home and abroad. Murray Stewart Leith is Senior Lecturer in Politics at the University of the West of Scotland. Duncan Sim is Reader in Sociology at the University of the West of Scotland. Cover image: New York City (c) Pawel Gaul iStockphoto.com and Saltire (c) Stewart White. Cover design: paulsmithdesign.com