Securitization, memory and the (historic) debate on Scottish Independence

I argue that from being a new element of the debate about Scotland’s place in the United Kingdom (UK) these questions take us back to the very reasons for the formation of the UK in 1707 and its extension in 1800, and appropriation of that past in contemporary debates. Matters relating to the security of England/Britain were crucial to the birth and development of the UK. The memory of Scotland’s place in the UK is closely related to these issues. The contribution of Scotland to the military history of the UK and the British Empire—through distinctive regiments and participation in global conflict—is central to the case for maintaining the integrity of the UK. This chapter adds historical depth and contextualization to the concept of securitization.