Scotland and Poland have historical, cultural and economic ties:
# Historical Connections
1. *Medieval trade (13th-16th centuries)*: Scotland and Poland traded goods like wool, textiles, and grain.
2. *Scottish mercenaries (16th-17th centuries)*: Scottish soldiers fought in Polish armies during the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.
3. *Reformation and Counter-Reformation (16th-17th centuries)*: Scottish Protestants sought refuge in Poland, while Polish Catholics influenced Scotland.
# Cultural Exchange
1. *Language*: Polish and Scottish Gaelic share linguistic similarities.
2. *Music and dance*: Traditional Scottish and Polish folk music and dance exhibit similarities.
3. *Crafts*: Scottish and Polish knitting patterns and textile traditions show common heritage.
4. *Cuisine*: Polish cuisine introduced dishes like pierogi, bigos and zapiekanka.
# Scottish Communities in Poland
1. *Historical presence*: Scots settled in Poland from the 16th century, particularly in cities like Krakow, Warsaw and Gdansk.
2. *Modern expatriates*: Many Scots now live in Poland for work, study or retirement.
# Notable Scots in Poland
1. *John Bonar (1565-1623)*: Scottish merchant and diplomat in Krakow.
2. *Robert Porteous (1571-1641)*: Scottish-Polish merchant and politician.
3. *Rev. John Bell (1796-1872)*: Scottish-Polish Presbyterian minister.
# Polish Influence on Scotland
1. *Architecture*: Polish styles influenced Scottish buildings, particularly in coastal towns.
2. *Education*: Polish educational models influenced Scottish reforms.
3. *Literature*: Polish literature influenced Scottish writers like Robert Burns.
# Resources
1. Scottish Polish Society: Promotes cultural exchange.
2. Poland-Scotland Association: Fosters bilateral relations.
3. National Records of Scotland: Archives historical documents.
4. “The Scots in Poland” by Dr. Tadeusz Slusarczyk (University of Krakow)
