History - Scotland - page 918

1740s−1830s
Following the loss of the Scottish parliament in 1707, Edinburgh declines in political
importance, but its cultural and intellectual life flourishes during a period known as the
Scottish Enlightenment.
Late 1700s
Scotland flourishes during the Industrial Revolution, becoming a world leader in the
production of textiles, iron, steel and coal - and above all in shipbuilding and marine
engineering.
1890-1910
The 'Glasgow Boys' bring European influence and international recognition to Scot-
tish art, breaking away from the Edinburgh mainstream.
1914−1932
Scottish industry slumps during WWI and collapses in its aftermath in the face of new
Eastern production and the Great Depression. About 400,000 Scots emigrate between
1921 and 1931.
1941−45
Clydebank is blitzed by German bombers in 1941 with 1200 deaths; by 1945 one out
of four males in the workforce is employed in heavy industries to support the war ef-
fort.
1970s
The discovery of oil and gas in the North Sea brings new prosperity to Aberdeen and
the surrounding area, and also to the Shetland Islands.
1999-2004
Scottish parliament is convened for the first time on 12 May 1999. After scandals and
huge expenses, a stunning new parliament building is opened in Edinburgh by Queen
Elizabeth II in October of 2004.
2012
The Scottish Government announces a referendum on full independence to be held in
2014.