Episode 59 - Parliament of Scotland in 13th Century

History of Scotland Podcast

Hello everyone and welcome to the History of Scotland, Episode 59.

This week, we're shifting our focus to the Scottish Parliament in the early to late 13th century. We'll explore what role it played in Scotland at this crucial time, how it differed from its English counterpart, and highlight any significant events and decisions that took place within its chambers. The 13th century was a period of significant political evolution and development, and the Parliament of Scotland was at the heart of this transformation
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So, what exactly was the Parliament of Scotland? How did it come into being, and what functions did it serve? Unlike the modern perception of parliaments as legislative bodies, the early Scottish Parliament had a more complex and multifaceted role. It wasn't merely a place for making laws; it was a forum for discussing and deciding on matters of national importance, advising the king, and addressing issues brought forth by the various estates of the realm.

One of the critical aspects we'll delve into is the composition of the Parliament, known as the Three Estates. This included the clerics, the lay tenants-in-chief, and the burgh commissioners. Each of these groups played a vital role in the functioning of the Parliament, representing different segments of Scottish society. The clerics brought the influence of the Church, the lay tenants-in-chief represented the feudal lords and landowners, and the burgh commissioners voiced the concerns of the burgeoning towns and burghs.

We'll also compare the Scottish Parliament with the English Parliament. While both institutions evolved during the same period, they developed distinct characteristics and served different functions within their respective kingdoms. The English Parliament had its unique structure and methods of operation, which we'll touch upon to highlight the contrasts and similarities.

Throughout this episode, we'll explore the significant events and decisions made by the Scottish Parliament. From enacting laws that shaped the daily lives of Scots to its judicial functions and advisory role to the king, the Parliament was a central institution in medieval Scotland. We'll discuss notable sessions and key decisions up until the end of Alexander III's reign in 1286.

Learning about all this and more will provide us with a deeper understanding of Scotland's political landscape during the 13th century. So, without further ado, let's jump back into the early 13th century and uncover the intriguing history of the Parliament of Scotland.

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