REASONS FOR PASSING THE UNION Flashcards
Who were prominent supporters of a Federal Union?
Andrew Fletcher of Saltoun and James Hodges
These individuals advocated for a Federal Union to protect Scottish national identity and sovereignty.
What is a Federal Union?
A system where Scotland and England cooperate on trade and war but remain separate on all other issues
Both Scotland and England would maintain their own parliaments.
What arguments did supporters of Federal Union make regarding Scotland’s national sovereignty?
Federal Union would protect Scotland’s national sovereignty and identity
They claimed that incorporating union would destroy Scotland’s sovereignty.
What religious concern did supporters of Federal Union highlight?
It would protect Scotland’s Presbyterian religion from Episcopalianism
They believed Episcopalianism could be reintroduced under incorporating union.
How would Scottish law be affected under Federal Union?
Scots Law would be best protected in a Federal Union
This was a concern for those who opposed incorporating union.
What was a major argument against Incorporating Union?
Scotland would lose its status as a nation and become ‘Scotlandshire’
Opponents feared a loss of national identity.
What was the concern regarding Scottish representation in a British Parliament?
Scottish MPs and Lords would be greatly outnumbered, favoring England
This would lead to laws passed that were unfavorable to Scotland.
What was the Earl of Godolphin’s stance on the Union?
He believed a fully incorporating union was essential for political security
This view was shaped by the Legislative War.
What did the Act Anent Peace and War (1703) stipulate?
Scotland may not support England in its foreign wars in the future
This raised concerns about potential alliances with France.
What were the economic motivations for England to pursue Union?
Incorporating Scotland would counterbalance Scottish trade success and provide manpower for English wars
England’s population growth was stagnating, making Scottish contributions valuable.
What was the Alien Act of 1705?
A law stating Scots would be treated as foreigners unless Union negotiations began by Christmas 1705
It threatened Scottish exports to England, risking economic disaster.
What role did the Duke of Queensberry play in the Treaty passage?
He was responsible for ensuring the Treaty was passed by the Scottish Parliament
His initial efforts faced challenges, leading to amendments being made.
What was the significance of the amendments made to the Treaty?
They protected various interests, making passage more likely
For example, Scottish Private Law was safeguarded.
What was the Act of Security’s importance in the Union debate?
It guaranteed the Presbyterian nature of the Scottish church, reducing opposition to Union
This led ministers to stop preaching against the Union.
How did financial incentives influence the support for Union?
The Equivalent and salary arrears persuaded many to support Union
Payments were made to members of the Court Party and the Squadrone Volante.
What rewards were given to supporters of the Union?
Pensions, promotions, and job positions were offered
For instance, the Duke of Argyll received a major-general rank and an English peerage.
What was a key reason for the passage of the Treaty?
Weakness of opposition and divided opponents
The Duke of Hamilton’s indecisive leadership played a role.
What were the forms of intimidation used by the English during the Union debate?
Military and economic intimidation
Large English armies were stationed at the Border, and the Alien Act threat loomed.
