The case for self-determination
Scotland's Road to Independence
Scotland's journey towards independence is one of the defining political stories of our time — a decades-long democratic movement that has transformed the political landscape of these islands. Here we trace that journey, and set out the work that still lies ahead.
Why Independence?
Independence is not an end in itself — it is a means to an end. It is about giving the people of Scotland the full powers they need to build a fairer, greener, more prosperous nation: one where decisions about Scotland are made in Scotland, by the people who live and work here.
For too long, Scotland has been governed by Westminster governments it did not vote for, pursuing policies it did not choose. From Thatcherism to austerity, from the poll tax to Brexit, Scotland has repeatedly been subjected to the political priorities of a different country. Independence would end that democratic deficit once and for all.
The SNP Braes Branch believes passionately in Scotland's right to determine its own future. We campaign, organise and advocate in our community because we know that independence is not just possible — it is necessary.
The Political Journey
From a fringe movement to a governing majority — the SNP's remarkable rise
The SNP is Founded
The Scottish National Party is formed from the merger of the National Party of Scotland and the Scottish Party, uniting the cause of Scottish self-government under a single political banner. For decades it remains a minor force, but the seed is planted.
Winnie Ewing Shocks Westminster
Winifred Ewing wins the Hamilton by-election in a stunning upset, sending the SNP's first MP to Westminster and announcing to the world that Scottish nationalism was a serious political force. Her victory electrifies the independence movement.
The Devolution Betrayal
A referendum on a Scottish Assembly produces a majority for devolution, but the infamous '40% rule' — requiring 40% of the entire electorate to vote Yes — means the result is disregarded. The SNP withdraws support from the Callaghan government, triggering a general election won by Margaret Thatcher.
Scotland Votes for a Parliament
In a decisive referendum, Scotland votes overwhelmingly for a devolved parliament with tax-varying powers. The Scottish Parliament opens in 1999, restoring a degree of self-governance to Scotland for the first time in nearly 300 years.
The SNP Forms its First Government
The SNP wins the Scottish Parliament election by a single seat and forms a minority government under Alex Salmond. It is a watershed moment — the party of independence is now the party of government, and it sets about proving that Scotland can be governed competently and confidently.
An Outright Majority
Against all expectations — and against a voting system specifically designed to prevent majorities — the SNP wins an outright majority at Holyrood. The mandate for an independence referendum is undeniable. Scotland is on the cusp of a historic choice.
The Independence Referendum
Scotland votes in the first independence referendum in its history. 45% vote Yes — a remarkable result for a cause that had polled in the low 20s just years earlier. The No campaign wins on a platform of 'The Vow' — promises of extensive new powers for Scotland that are never fully delivered.
The Political Earthquake
In the UK general election, the SNP wins 56 of Scotland's 59 Westminster seats — the most dramatic electoral transformation in modern British political history. The independence movement is not defeated; it is energised.
Brexit Changes Everything
Scotland votes 62% to Remain in the European Union. England and Wales vote to Leave. The UK votes to Leave. Scotland is dragged out of the EU against its will — a fundamental change in the constitutional circumstances that underpinned the 2014 No vote.
Sustained Mandate, Blocked Democracy
The SNP and Scottish Greens win a pro-independence majority at Holyrood for the third consecutive time. Westminster continues to block a second referendum, raising profound questions about the nature of the Union and Scotland's place within it. The democratic case for independence has never been stronger.
The Work Still to Be Done
The case for independence is stronger than ever — but winning it requires sustained effort on multiple fronts. Here is what the movement must achieve.
Building the Majority
Consistent polling majorities for independence are within reach, but not yet locked in. The movement must continue to persuade — particularly among older voters, those in rural communities, and those who voted No in 2014 but have since seen the promises made to them broken.
Securing the Democratic Route
Westminster's refusal to recognise Scotland's democratic mandate is itself an argument for independence. The movement must continue to press for a legal, agreed referendum — and to build the international case that Scotland's right to self-determination cannot be indefinitely denied.
Answering the Economic Questions
The currency question, the deficit, the border with England — these are the questions that swung undecided voters in 2014. The independence movement must develop clear, credible, detailed answers that give wavering voters the confidence to choose Yes.
Winning Back Trust in the SNP
The independence cause is bigger than any one party, but the SNP remains its primary vehicle. Rebuilding public trust after a difficult period in government — and demonstrating competence, integrity and vision — is essential to winning the next referendum.
Broadening the Coalition
Independence must be a cause that transcends party lines. Engaging Yes-supporting Greens, Labour voters, and those with no party affiliation — and building a broad civic movement rather than a purely partisan one — will be essential to reaching the 50%+1 needed to win.
Grassroots Organising
Referendums are won on doorsteps, in community halls and at kitchen tables. Branches like ours in the Braes must continue to build local networks, have conversations with our neighbours, and make the positive case for independence in every ward, street and community.
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Scotland's cause is the cause of democracy. It is the cause of a people who believe they have the right to govern themselves.— Alex Salmond, First Minister of Scotland 2007–2014
Join the Movement
Scotland's independence will not be won by politicians alone. It will be won by ordinary people — in communities like ours — who believe in a better future and are willing to work for it. Join the SNP Braes Branch and be part of that story.
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