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Period: 1000 to 1285
Origin
Scottish Highland dance evolved from the Gaelic practice of war dances. The intricate and highly difficult moves were originally used as a means for the King to choose men for his army based on their performance of strength, agility, stamina, and accuracy. From this the dance has evolved into an artistic expression passed on through generations to celebrate Scottish culture and identity. -
1285
First Recorded Instance
At Alexander the III's second wedding, to Yolande de Dreux of France, was the first ever occasion resulting in a record of Scottish Highland Dancing. Then described as an "intricate war dance to the sounds of bagpipes." -
Restrictions by Government of Great Britain
Following the Battle of Culloden in 1976, government in London passed and Act of Parliament which barred the wearing of Kilts and the carrying of weapons in an attempt to eradicate unlawful clan behaviour in Scotland. This resulted in a temporary halt in practicing highland dance as a kilt is the required attire and the sword dance was the most prevalent at the time. This effectively eliminated a great amount of cultural pride in Scotland. -
Culture Revived
Queen Victoria lifts restrictions barring and relating to clans in Scotland due to her love for the country. Thus, Scottish Highland dancing was enjoyed publicly by her Majesty and the nation. -
Transformative Action
Historically Highland dancing was performed by men but in the late 19th century, 10 year old Jenny Douglas competed in a Highland Dancing Competition as the first woman to take part. This was a transformative event that opened the doors for more women to join in this form of dance and competition. -
World Highland Dance Competition
The famous Cowal Highland Gathering adds the World Highland Dance Championship as part of the activities done at the festival attended by thousands. Recognizing Scottish Highland Dancing as a significant cultural aspect and dance form. To date women have been among many of the Champions, note that in the beginning they were required to wear the same uniform as men. -
Strengthening the Foundation
The Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing is founded. This board was responsible for the standardization of dance steps performed in competitions, establishing the rules and required outfits, and certified competitions. This marks the beginning of modern Highland Dancing practice. -
Feminine Influence
The Aboyne Games in the United Kingdom sponsored a much more feminine costume than the previously required attire. This new costume was based on 17th and 18th century Highland dress. This acknowledgement of a woman's place in Highland Dance competitions marked an evolution of the activity. -
Early 2000's
There is now a way for highland Dancers to take unbiased Exams to assess their abilities, and the Board has given them the opportunity to compete in nondiscriminatory festivals and competitions for large amounts of spectators. The number of women in Highland Dancing has surpassed the number of men involved. This transformation follows the strides made within the woman rights movements, as well as how dance is now entirely recreational rather than for military use as initially intended. -
Modern Highland Dancing
Today Scottish Highland Dancing has a tremendous audience, competitions are held all over the globe. Namely in Australia, Canada, South Africa, New Zealand, and the USA in addition to those held in Scotland and the United Kingdom.