This is a topical, comparative study of the economic, social and political development of Norway and Scotland since 1800. How did the development of two small countries at the north of Europe, whose histories were joined from about the year 795 AD - including a 300 year alliance - nevertheless diverge sharply in the modern era? This edited collection of essays covers various elements of this analysis including land ownership, politics, agriculture, industry, money and banking, local government, education, religion, access and the outdoor life, as well as several more synthetic chapters. Written as it is by historians, political scientists, economists, sociologists, anthropologists and human geographers, the book moves beyond historical narrative, and outlines elements of a theory of divergent development between Norway and Scotland over the long term, and so towards a novel history which will be of interest to a wider audience. Features: focus on key periods of intensive relationships between Scotland and Norway; new analysis of the differences between the two countries after the medieval period; clear information and analysis of how Norway changed after independence from Denmark; policy ideas on 'independence' issues such as natural resources and land rights; and, exclusive essays from established and new scholars.