TRADITION: trivia - The Ancient Highland Games in Scotland ended when the British Crown and Government tried to destroy a culture and a way of life... but it did not go as planned.
Prior to 18th century, Highland Games were more ‘war games‘ revolving around athletic and sport competitions. Other activities were always a part of the festivities but originally were just considered entertainment.
The first historical reference of Highland Games in Scotland was made during the time of King Malcolm III when in 1040 he summoned men to race up Craig Choinnich (A 200m hill overlooking Braemar, Scotland) with the aim of finding the fastest runner in Scotland to be his royal messenger.
Early gatherings were also thought to have originally been where the strongest and bravest from 'clans' in Scotland would gather and be tested. With groups of people gathering for multiple hours, need for food and entrainment naturally became a part of the gatherings. Eventually these 'sources of entertainment' (music, poetry) became 'sources of pride' for clans to represent themselves in these gatherings.
In 1314 after Robert the Bruce allowed the village of Ceres to hold a fair and market in honor of of the Battle of Bannockburn. The Ceres Highland Games games holds the title of being the oldest active, Highland Games in Scotland.
With the Act of Proscription enacted by the British Crown and Parliament after the Jacobite rebellion of 1745, which sole purpose was to destroy the culture and way of life of the 'Highlander' with the complete breakup of the clan system, put an end to these ancient gatherings.
Close to 100 years later the modern Highland Games, the gatherings represented around the world today, exploded back into pop culture. Oddly enough due to one important lady...
Queen Victoria of England (click to learn more)
for more information about the documentary TRADITION: A STORY FROM GLENGARRY or how to help/donate click the link below.
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