The Act of Union

The Act of Union (1707) was a significant legislative agreement that unified the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of Scotland into a single entity known as Great Britain. This was motivated by economic concerns, political stability, and a desire for a stronger national defense against external threats. The Act created a central Parliament in Westminster that represented both England and Scotland, while Scotland retained its legal system and established its own identity. This union aimed to promote cooperation and prosperity, but it also led to ongoing discussions about Scottish identity and governance within the larger British context.