Scotland Votes for Devolved Parliament
September 11th, 1997
September 11th, 1997
How Long Ago?
27 years, 6 months, 4 days ago
Location
Scotland, United Kingdom
Category
Politics & Government
People
- Tony Blair
- Donald Dewar
Links & References
Tags
Scotland Votes for Devolved Parliament
Following a nationwide referendum, the Scottish electorate chose to establish a devolved parliament within the United Kingdom. The historic vote occurred on September 11, 1997, with a majority deciding in favor of a legislative body that would address issues specific to Scotland. This decision was largely influenced by a growing desire for self-governance and local representation, reflecting a significant shift in the political landscape of the region.
74.3% voted in favor of devolution
Turnout was over 60% of registered voters
Tony Blair promised a Scottish Parliament
Scottish Parliament officially opened in 1999
What Happened?
In a landmark decision, the Scottish people participated in a nationwide referendum, where they voted overwhelmingly in favor of establishing a devolved parliament within the United Kingdom. This momentous event took place on September 11, 1997, and was largely driven by a desire for greater autonomy and representation. The referendum had a voter turnout of 60.4%, with a resounding 74.3% of participants casting their votes in favor of devolution. It marked a crucial turning point in Scottish politics, showcasing the aspirations of the Scottish populace for more localized government and control over domestic issues, such as education and health, distinct from Westminster's influence.The campaign for devolution spanned several years, gaining momentum through the 1980s and 1990s, as social and political movements within Scotland intensified. The Labour Party, led by Tony Blair, who came to power in 1997, was a key advocate for the Scottish Parliament, promising to honor the electorate's wish for devolution. The 1997 referendum was a key component of Blair’s broader agenda of reform across the UK, which included Welsh devolution and the establishment of the Greater London Authority. Consequently, the Scottish Parliament was officially established in 1999, leading to political changes that have shaped Scotland’s governance ever since.
Why Does it Matter?
The establishment of a devolved parliament in Scotland is significant as it laid the groundwork for increased Scottish self-governance, setting a precedent for regional autonomy within the UK. It is interesting because it marks a shift towards a more federal structure of government in Britain, influencing discussions about nationalism and identity across the United Kingdom, particularly in Wales and Northern Ireland.
Discover More Historic Events from September 11th
Hurricane Francine Strikes the Gulf Coast
Hurricane Francine, a Category 2 storm, made landfall in the Gulf of Mexico, impacting several coastal communities. It was characterized by sustained winds reaching 100 mph and heavy rainfall, leading to significant storm surge. This powerful hurricane resulted in widespread power outages and substantial damage to infrastructure, prompting emergency response teams to deploy quickly. The storm's impacts were felt most acutely in Texas, Louisiana, and Florida, as residents prepared for evacuation and sought refuge from the dangerous weather conditions.
Continue ReadingDerna Flooding After Dams Collapse
Storm Daniel caused catastrophic flooding in Derna, Libya, by collapsing two major dams, leading to an overwhelming loss of life with over 11,300 fatalities. The storm, which had gained intensity, released torrential rains, overwhelming the city. This natural disaster struck an area already facing political instability and humanitarian crises, exacerbating the suffering of the local population.
Continue ReadingCrane Collapse at Masjid al-Haram Mosque
A construction crane collapsed into the Masjid al-Haram mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, resulting in the deaths of 111 individuals and injuries to 394 others. The crane fell due to severe winds that were recorded at the time, and it struck the mosque during a busy period leading up to the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Emergency services responded promptly to assist those affected and conduct rescue operations amidst the chaos following the incident.
Continue ReadingDeadly Fires Claim 315 Lives in Pakistan Factories
In Pakistan, two separate garment factory fires resulted in the tragic loss of 315 lives. The fires occurred in Karachi and Lahore, with workers unable to escape due to lack of adequate safety measures. The disasters highlighted serious safety violations within the garment industry, prompting outrage and calls for reform. The incidents underscored the risks faced by workers in Pakistan's economy, heavily reliant on garment exports.
Continue ReadingAttack on U.S. Embassy in Benghazi
The U.S. embassy in Benghazi was attacked by militants, resulting in the deaths of four Americans, including U.S. Ambassador Christopher Stevens. This assault occurred during a period of heightened tensions across the Middle East, following the release of an anti-Islam film. The attack raised significant security concerns for U.S. diplomatic missions worldwide, leading to a reevaluation of U.S. foreign policy in the region.
Continue ReadingTen Years Later, 9/11 Memorial Opens
A dedication ceremony at the United States National September 11 Memorial welcomed family members of victims on the tenth anniversary of the September 11 attacks in New York City. The memorial, featuring cascading waterfalls and reflecting pools, stands in the footprints of the Twin Towers. This significant ceremony invited families to privately view the memorial for the first time, honoring the nearly 3,000 lives lost in 2001. Remarks were given by various officials, including President Barack Obama, emphasizing remembrance and resilience.
Continue Reading