Small nations and independence have dominated our headlines for many years now. We look towards other countries' successes in comparison to our own. We watch them chart their own path across the world, flourishing independently. But, what is it about these small states? It is their resilience.

This book delves into the present states of resilience in Scotland and Ireland, placing them within the context of historical and contemporary realities. Taking the analysis to new depths, McLeish and Harrison connect the futures of these nations beyond their existing constitutional differences to the broader archipelago that defines their northern and western boundaries.

The book contends that Scotland’s current emphasis on independence poses a threat to its resilience, presenting a binary political focus. In contrast, it views Ireland as remarkably successful but acknowledges the need for continued efforts to ensure resilience. Furthermore, the authors see the archipelago as an opportunity for a mosaic of resilient nations to forge new cooperative structures and extend ties with their Nordic neighbours.

This book will appeal to citizens interested in independence movements (both Irish and Scottish) alongside readers interested in politics and the relations of small nations.