Evolution Of Highland Games from Earlier to Modern Ones
Highland Games is one of the oldest gaming events worldwide. The number of games we see people playing today was not the same but became part of the event with time. Highland games have a fascinating history and an interesting evolution journey. This article aims to tell you about the evolution of Highland games from their ancient origin to adopting modernism. Meanwhile, many things, like the Act of Proscription and the role of noble kings, will be discussed!
Origins of the Highland Games
When we talk of ancient entities of Scotland, kilt outfits, a large number of ancient castles, impressive architecture, and Highland games come to mind. These cultural elements have different histories and are equally popular in Scotland, even in other countries where Scots live.
When we talk of Scottish Highland games, their history is almost 1,000 years old. Researchers have different opinions on the origin of Highland games. However, most of them believe that King Malcolm III was the first to initiate and set a gaming trend in Highland. In the 11th century, he organized a foot race to the highest point of Craig Choinnich near Braemar. The purpose of the race was to find the fastest runner to serve as his quickest messenger.
Early Highland Games
Most of the written proof claims foot racing to be the most ancient game of this event. The game is still popular, and a large number of athletes participate in it. Early Highland games did not comprise foot racing only, but many other competitions were added with time. Some earlier parts of Highland games were running, jumping, riding, throwing, caber tossing, etc. The winners of contests were elected as soldiers by the clan chief.
Remember, the earliest era of Highland games was among the clan gatherings when the strongest people of clans competed with each other to show physical prowess. They had to work hard to secure the victories.
Evolution of Highland Games
When we talk about the evolution of Highland games, modern development primarily occurred in the 19th century. However, a primary reason behind the evolution took place in the 18th century. Let’s have a look at the games in the 18th century.
Games in the 18th Century
The 18th century was not a good time for many ancient Scottish things, like their attire and Highland games. A major act, “The Act of Proscription,” was imposed to control Scotland. As a result of this act, Scottish costumes and gatherings were disallowed. The ban continued for almost 40 years.
Another event that helped Highland games to become well-known worldwide was the Highland Clearances. For over 100 years, Scots were forcefully removed from their lands. The event seemed to be a cruel act at the start, but its outcome helped extend the Scottish dispersion worldwide. The introduction of Highland games expanded wherever the Scots went. As a result, they kept the cultural significance of their traditions alive.
Revival in the 19th Century
Highland games made a stronger comeback after the Act of Proscription was repealed from Scottish traditions. The role of some nobility was extraordinary then, while a common name is Queen Victoria. Her deep affection for Scotland and the Highlanders made her purchase Balmoral Castle, which played a crucial role in expanding the games.
This event also impressed Baron de Coubertin, the founder of the Olympic games. In 1889, he introduced games such as hammer throw, shot put, and tug-of-war to the Highland games. Moreover, other events, like Highland Fling, became part of Scottish gaming in the same century.
Modern Highland Games
By the early 20th century, the games had become more formalized, and governing policies had been formed. International recognition developed, particularly in countries with Scottish diasporas, like the United States and Canada. Today, the Highland Games celebrate Scottish culture through athletics, dancing, and music.
The games included traditional athletic events, Scottish dancing, and traditional music as iconic events. Today, the games celebrate Scottish heritage and have become a symbol of cultural pride, attracting participants and spectators worldwide, with numerous festivals held annually.
Role of Nobilities
Various noble people were helpful in making the Highland Games familiar worldwide. Pierre de Coubertin, King Malcolm III, who founded the games, and Queen Victoria are some prominent names.
King Malcolm Canmore: King Malcolm III, also known as Canmore, was the 1st one to introduce the Highland Games.
King George IV: In 1782, the Act of Prospirition was appealed, and the authorities were asked to remove the ban. The revival was significantly accelerated by King George IV’s appearance in Edinburgh dressed in Scottish attire in 1822.
Queen Victoria: Highland game participants must thank Queen Victoria for taking the games in this situation. Her approval for organizing events played a significant role in making these games more common in Highland.
Pierre de Coubertin: He was a French educator and historian. Pierre de Coubertin was the founder of the Olympic games, which the entire world participates in today. Moreover, his part in reforming the Highland Games is prominent. His struggle to introduce a number of sports in the Highland games made him a hero to Highlanders.
Conclusion
Everyone today wants to enjoy Highland games, whether he is an audience or a participant. Being a Scot, when you see a game or an event like sword dancing while listening to traditional haunting melodies, you must thank those who made efforts to keep the culture alive. Furthermore, the modern games you see today were different historically. They witnessed a spike during the 18th and 19th centuries after remaining banned for 40 years. Being culture-oriented, many nobles played a role in promoting the games, while some familiar names you must remember are King Malcolm, Queen Victoria, and Pierre de Coubertin.
