A Closer Look at the History of the Highland Games

The Highland Games, also known as the Scottish Games, is an event that is held each summer in Scotland as well as in those countries that happen to have a big Scottish diaspora such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States. They are held in order to celebrate being Scottish and are attended by thousands and thousands of people who are proud of their Scottish ancestry. Below we are going to take a look at the history of this event.

Betting on the Games

However, before we take a look at the history of this event, we think it is prudent to inform you that you will be able to place bets on who you think will win a particular event or who you think will lift the prestigious trophy at the end of the tournament. The Scots have always loved a little gamble, so it really can come as no surprise to find out that there is plenty that you can place your money on when you are watching full grown men try to prove just how Scottish they are.

The Scots are also well known for liking their alcohol, so you should also not be surprised to hear that there is plenty of whiskey and beer available when the games are taking place. If you are a gambling man, be sure not to get too drunk or you might just end up placing a bet that you will come to deeply regret.

The History of the Highland Games

Historians do not really know why the Highland Games came into being, but they firmly believe that these games were used as a means to find the strongest men to go into battle and to determine which man will be best to be the leader of a household. The first reference in literature to the Highland Games dates all the way back to when King Malcolm III was ruling Scotland during the 11th century. He organized a race to the top of Craig Choinnich and it is believed that he was doing this as a means to find someone to be his royal courier.

In 1314, the Ceres Games were held in Fife after Robert the Bruce allowed a fair to be held in order to honor the clansmen and villagers who fought in the Battle of Bannockburn. These games are the oldest Highland Games in the country and still take place to this very day.

In the 18th century, the Lord of Clan Grant summoned a number of clan members, asking them to bring guns, swords, and dirk, which is a clear indicator that they were going to be attending an event where they had to show off their weapon skills. In 1838, the Queen of England visited the Braemar Highland Games for the very first time. She gave the game her seal of approval which increased their popularity and led to the Highland Games being established as a Scottish Tradition. Queen Elizabeth II, the current Queen of England, attends these games quite regularly