Scotland Reflects on 2014 Independence Referendum

Today marks the 10th anniversary of Scotland's independence referendum, where 55.3% voted against breaking from the UK, a result that the SNP has struggled to accept since. The campaign, characterized by significant voter engagement and a lengthy 18-month process, saw key moments like George Osborne's warning against currency union that weakened the Yes campaign. Despite the decisive outcome, calls for a second referendum have persisted, with recent electoral defeats for the SNP underscoring public fatigue with the independence issue. Former First Minister Alex Salmond reflected on the campaign's excitement and the initial belief in a possible Yes victory, which ultimately fell short. The UK Supreme Court's 2022 ruling further complicated the SNP's efforts for a new referendum, emphasizing Westminster's control over such decisions. As Scotland continues to navigate its political landscape, the independence debate remains a polarizing issue.