Scotland and Norway share historical, cultural and genetic ties:
# Historical Connections
1. *Viking invasions (8th-10th centuries)*: Norwegian Vikings raided and settled in Scotland, particularly in the west coast and islands.
2. *Medieval trade (11th-14th centuries)*: Scotland and Norway traded goods like wool, fish and timber.
3. *Union of the Crowns (1312)*: Scotland and Norway briefly shared a monarch, Haakon V Magnusson.
# Cultural Exchange
1. *Language*: Norwegian and Scottish Gaelic share linguistic similarities.
2. *Music and dance*: Traditional Scottish and Norwegian folk music and dance exhibit similarities.
3. *Crafts*: Scottish and Norwegian knitting patterns and textile traditions show common heritage.
# Scottish Communities in Norway
1. *Historical presence*: Scots settled in Norway from the 17th century, particularly in cities like Bergen, Oslo and Stavanger.
2. *Modern expatriates*: Many Scots now live in Norway for work, study or retirement.
# Notable Scots in Norway
1. *James Robertson (1753-1829)*: Scottish-Norwegian merchant and consul.
2. *George Sinclair (1790-1868)*: Scottish-Norwegian naval officer.
3. *Edvard Grieg (1843-1907)*: Norwegian composer with Scottish ancestry.
# Norwegian Influence on Scotland
1. *Cuisine*: Norwegian cuisine introduced dishes like smoked salmon and seafood stews.
2. *Architecture*: Norwegian styles influenced Scottish buildings, particularly in coastal towns.
3. *Folklore*: Norwegian folklore influenced Scottish mythology.
# Resources
1. Scottish Norwegian Society: Promotes cultural exchange.
2. Norway-Scotland Association: Fosters bilateral relations.
3. National Records of Scotland: Archives historical documents.
4. “The Scots in Norway” by Dr. Stian Bones (University of Oslo)
