National Scott Day

A group of individuals named Scott wearing different styles of hats and clothing, reminiscent of famous Scotts throughout history. The scene is set in a mysterious, enchanted forest with hints of a magical aura lingering in the air.. — National scott day illustration

Have you ever heard of National Scott Day? It's quite a niche celebration that few seem to completely understand, like the ending of Inception. With a whopping mention count of 4 spied online, it's safe to say National Scott Day isn't quite the Super Bowl. Nevertheless, it appears it had its five minutes of fame on 17 Sep 2017.

When is Scott Day?

It's national scott day on the 17th September.

The Myth and Magic of National Scott Day

National Scott Day is one of those internet anomalies that pop up like mushrooms, generating a couple of mentions and then quietly disappearing into the abyss. Akin to the elusive loch ness monster, the Unicorn, or the tasty calorie-free pizza, National Scott Day is definitely an idiosyncratic one.

What's in the Name?

Well, we're not talking about Scott toilet paper or Scott's emulsion here, rather individuals named Scott. What might come to mind are famous Scotts, like Scott Fitzgerald author of The Great Gatsby, Scott Joplin, the ragtime pianist or Scott Disick from...well...that reality show.

Celebrating National Scott Day

The hype around National Scott Day clearly peaked on 17th September 2017. But how does one celebrate this curious feast? Do we play jazz while reading The Great Gatsby, or tune into our favorite reality show? The mystery remains as shrouded as a Scooby-Doo finale.

The Legacy of National Scott Day

While National Scott Day may not be up there alongside Christmas or Thanksgiving regarding popularity, it serves as a delightful reminder of the internet's random character. It's the digital equivalent of finding a forgotten dollar in your coat pocket - unexpected, slightly amusing, and peculiarly satisfying.

History behind the term 'Scott'

1136

Origin of the term 'Scot'

The term 'Scot' originated in 1136 when it was used to refer to the people of Gaelic Scotland. It derived from the Old Irish word 'Scottas' which means 'wanderer' or 'rogue'. The Gaelic Scots were a Celtic people who lived in the northern part of Britain and had a distinct culture and language.

9th century

The Gaelic Origins

The term 'scott' originated in the 9th century from the Gaelic word 'Scoti,' which referred to a Gaelic-speaking people living in Ireland. These people were descendants of Celtic tribes that migrated to the British Isles from Central Europe around 500 BCE. The word 'Scoti' was primarily used to differentiate these Gaelic-speaking people from the native Picts and the invading Angles and Saxons.

12th century

Origins of the term 'Scot'

The term 'Scot' originated in the 12th century and was used to refer to the indigenous people of Scotland. It is believed to have come from the Old English word 'Scyttan' meaning 'to damage' or 'to fight'. This term was initially used by the English and the Irish to describe the Gaelic-speaking people of Scotland.

9th century

Early Origins

The term 'Scott' is derived from the Old Norse word 'skotar,' which means a raider or robber. During the 9th century, Vikings from Norway and Denmark began to raid and settle in what is now Scotland. These Norse raiders and settlers were referred to as 'Skotar' by the Gaelic-speaking Picts and Gaels who already inhabited the region.

11th century

The Arrival in Scotland

In the 11th century, the term 'scott' crossed the Irish Sea and became associated with the Gaelic-speaking people who inhabited modern-day Scotland. The Kingdom of Alba, ruled by Kenneth MacAlpin, began to emerge as a unified Scottish kingdom, and the term 'scott' was used to describe the people living in this region.

14th century

Scottish identity and national pride

During the 14th century, the term 'Scott' became associated with Scottish identity and national pride. This was a time when Scotland was asserting its independence from England, and the Scottish people embraced the term as a symbol of their unique culture and heritage. It represented their resilience and determination to preserve their language and traditions.

12th century

Anglicization of 'Skotar'

As the Norse influence in Scotland declined, the term 'Skotar' gradually evolved into 'Scotta' in the Gaelic language. During the 12th century, when the English language began to establish its dominance, the term 'Scotta' was Anglicized to 'Scott.' This Anglicized version became widely used to refer to the people of Scotland.

1707

The Act of Union

In 1707, the Act of Union was signed, merging the Kingdom of Scotland with the Kingdom of England into a single entity known as the Kingdom of Great Britain. As a result, the term 'Scott' or 'Scots' began to be used more widely to refer to the people of both Scotland and the Scottish Highlands. This marked an important milestone in the history of the term, as it became associated with the entire Scottish population.

1819

First recorded use of 'Scotsman'

The term 'Scotsman' was first recorded in 1819. It refers to a man from Scotland or of Scottish descent. The word 'Scotsman' became commonly used to distinguish a Scottish man from men of other nationalities or regions. It soon became synonymous with the proud, resilient, and often fiercely independent Scottish identity.

16th century

Usage in Literary Works

In the 16th century, the term 'Scott' gained cultural significance through the works of influential Scottish authors such as Sir Walter Scott. His novels, poems, and historical works, which romanticized Scottish history and landscapes, played a significant role in shaping the modern perception and identity of 'Scotts' or 'Scots.' The name 'Scott' became synonymous with Scottish heritage, culture, and patriotism.

19th century

The impact of famous Scottish authors

In the 19th century, the term 'Scot' gained further recognition and popularity through the works of famous Scottish authors such as Sir Walter Scott and Robert Burns. These influential writers celebrated Scottish history, folklore, and traditions, elevating the term 'Scot' as a source of national pride and cultural significance.

12th century

The Anglo-Norman Influence

During the 12th century, the Norman invasion of England led to an influx of Norman settlers into Scotland. As a result, the term 'scott' started to be used in a more specific sense, referring to those Gaelic-speaking people who were not of Norman descent. This distinction reflected the cultural and linguistic divide between the native Scots and the Norman settlers in Scotland.

1895

Creation of the term 'Scottish'

In 1895, the term 'Scottish' was officially coined to describe anything or anyone related to Scotland. It became widely used to denote Scottish culture, traditions, products, and people. The term 'Scottish' evokes images of tartan kilts, bagpipes, Scotch whisky, and the breathtaking Scottish Highlands. It has become an integral part of Scotland's national identity.

20th century

Scottish diaspora and global influence

The 20th century marked a significant period for the Scot, as the Scottish diaspora spread around the world, particularly to countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Scottish immigrants brought their culture, traditions, and the term 'Scot' with them, contributing to the global influence of Scottish identity and pride.

19th century

Scottish Diaspora

During the 19th century, Scotland experienced a significant wave of emigration due to industrialization, economic changes, and the Highland Clearances. Large numbers of 'Scotts' migrated to various parts of the world, particularly North America, Australia, and New Zealand. The term 'Scott' became a symbol of Scottish ancestry and identity for these diaspora communities, reinforcing the cultural impact of the term across different continents.

14th century

The Wars of Independence

In the 14th century, Scotland fought a series of Wars of Independence against England. These conflicts further solidified the identity of the term 'scott' as a symbol of Scottish national pride and resistance against English dominance. The wars, led by figures like William Wallace and Robert the Bruce, showcased the determination and bravery of the Scots and created a lasting legacy.

Present day

Symbol of Scottish heritage and identity

Today, the term 'Scot' continues to be a symbol of Scottish heritage and identity. Whether used to describe someone of Scottish descent or to represent the Scottish people as a whole, it carries with it a sense of pride and belonging. The term 'Scot' unites people from different parts of the world, bound by a shared appreciation for Scottish culture, history, and traditions.

18th century

The Scottish Enlightenment

The 18th century witnessed the Scottish Enlightenment, a period of intellectual and cultural flourishing. Scottish thinkers such as Adam Smith, David Hume, and James Watt made significant contributions to philosophy, economics, and science. The term 'scott' came to represent the intellectual and innovative spirit of the Scottish people during this time.

Present

Global Recognition

In the present day, the term 'Scott' continues to be recognized globally to refer to individuals of Scottish descent, residents of Scotland, or anyone with an affinity for Scottish culture. The term has transcended its historical origins and has become a proud identifier of Scottish heritage, contributing to the diverse tapestry of global identities.

20th century

Global recognition of the term 'Scott'

Throughout the 20th century, the term 'Scott' gained global recognition and became synonymous with Scotland and Scottish heritage. This recognition was due to the contributions of both historical figures and cultural icons. Scottish authors, such as Sir Walter Scott, popularized Scottish literature, while actors like Sean Connery brought Scottish charm and charisma to the international stage. Today, 'Scott' is widely recognized and celebrated worldwide.

19th century

Emigration and Diaspora

In the 19th century, many Scots emigrated from their homeland due to economic hardship and seeking new opportunities. The Highland Clearances and industrialization led to waves of Scottish emigration to various parts of the world, including North America, Australia, and New Zealand. The term 'scott' became synonymous with the Scottish diaspora, representing their cultural heritage and the contributions they made to their adopted countries.

Present Day

Modern Usage and Identity

In the present day, the term 'scott' continues to be used to refer to the Scottish people and their cultural identity. Scotland's rich history, traditions, and achievements have shaped the perception and understanding of the term. Whether it is the bagpipes, tartan, kilts, or the Scottish accent, the term 'scott' encompasses the unique characteristics that make Scotland and its people truly distinct.

Did you know?

Do you remember the hoopla around National Scott Day on 17th September 2017? No? Don't worry, neither does the internet. It's near impossible to find any record of it now!