The Stone of Scone Taken by Nationalist Students

December 25th, 1950

December 25th, 1950

The Stone of Scone Taken by Nationalist Students
How Long Ago?

74 years, 2 months, 18 days ago

Location

Westminster Abbey, London, England

Category

Social Movements & Civil Rights

People
  • Scottish nationalist students
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The Stone of Scone Taken by Nationalist Students

Scottish nationalist students removed the Stone of Scone from Westminster Abbey. This act was a statement against English rule and a call for Scottish independence. The iconic stone, traditionally used in the coronation of Scottish and later British monarchs, found its way back to Scotland on April 11, 1951, after its theft. The incident captured public attention and fueled nationalist sentiments in Scotland.

Stone traditionally used in monarch coronations.

Removed by students protesting English rule.

Reappeared in Scotland at Arbroath Abbey.

Spurred rise in Scottish nationalist sentiments.

What Happened?

The Stone of Scone, also known as the Stone of Destiny, has played a crucial role in Scottish history as a symbol of monarchy and sovereignty. Traditionally, it was used in the coronation of Scottish kings and later became part of the British coronation ceremonies after being taken to England in 1296 by King Edward I. On December 25, 1950, a group of Scottish nationalist students, frustrated with ongoing English dominance, decided to reclaim this historic object. They broke into Westminster Abbey, where the stone was kept, and successfully removed it. The action was not just a theft; it was a political statement about Scottish identity and aspirations for independence. Following the theft, the stone was hidden for several months before resurfacing in Scotland on April 11, 1951, at Arbroath Abbey, where it was left as a symbolic gesture. The return of the stone to Scotland sparked significant media coverage and public enthusiasm, representing a broader movement towards Scottish nationalism and cultural revival during the post-war period. The incident highlighted the tensions between Scotland and England fueled by centuries of political union and domination and contributed to subsequent discussions about Scottish self-governance and identity.

Why Does it Matter?

The removal and subsequent return of the Stone of Scone became a pivotal moment in the Scottish nationalist movement, rekindling discussions about Scotland's national identity. It sparked public interest in Scotland's historical narratives and influenced later demands for political autonomy, contributing to the eventual establishment of the Scottish Parliament in 1999. This event is interesting as it symbolizes a stronger assertion of Scottish identity and the shift towards greater self-determination.

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