One of the most famous documents in Scotland's history has been recognised by the United Nations for its international importance.
The original Declaration of Arbroath, a declaration of Scottish Independence has now been awarded Unesco "Memory of the World" status.
It is in the form of a letter written in Latin to Pope John XXII, dated 06 April 1320, confirming Scotland's status as an independent sovereign state and defending Scotland's right to use military action when unjustly attacked.
Unesco's Elizabeth Oxborrow-Cowan said:
"This famous document rightly deserves the accolade of outstanding significance. It is a wonderful example of our remarkable documentary heritage which I urge people to go out and discover for themselves."
Added Kenneth Gibson:
"US Senate Resolution 155 of 10 November 1997 highlights importance of the Declaration of Arbroath, that the American Declaration of Independence was modeled on that inspirational document.
"For me and many supporters of Scottish independence, the key phrase is:
"...for, as long as but a hundred of us remain alive, never will we on any conditions be brought under English rule. It is in truth not for glory, nor riches, nor honours that we are fighting, but for freedom – for that alone, which no honest man gives up but with life itself."
"Luckily, these days if we want independence the Scottish people only have to vote for it, should enough support the calling of another referendum."
To learn more about the Declaration of Arbroath, please go to:
