Elginshire (Parliament of Scotland constituency) facts for kids
The shire of Elgin and Forres was a historical area in Scotland, similar to a county. Before the Acts of Union 1707, which joined Scotland and England to form Great Britain, important landowners from this area, known as 'barons', would choose people to represent them. These representatives were called 'shire commissioners'. They would attend the Parliament of Scotland, which was the main government body for Scotland at the time, and also other important meetings called the Convention of the Estates.
After 1708, following the creation of Great Britain, the area known as Moray (which included the former shire of Elgin and Forres) sent one person to represent it in the new British government. This representative would sit in the House of Commons of Great Britain.
Contents
Understanding Shire Commissioners
Before 1707, each 'shire' or county in Scotland had its own representatives in the Scottish Parliament. These representatives were known as shire commissioners. They were chosen by the local landowners and acted as the voice for their region in the government.
Who Were the Commissioners?
The commissioners were usually important local figures, often wealthy landowners or nobles. They played a key role in making laws and decisions for Scotland. For the shire of Elgin and Forres, these commissioners represented the interests of the people and the land in that specific region.
The Parliament of Scotland
The Parliament of Scotland was the main law-making body for Scotland for many centuries. It was a 'unicameral' parliament, meaning it had only one chamber or house. The shire commissioners from places like Elgin and Forres were an important part of this parliament, helping to shape the country's future.
Changes After 1707
The Acts of Union 1707 changed how Scotland was governed. Scotland and England joined to form the Kingdom of Great Britain. This meant that the Scottish Parliament no longer existed on its own. Instead, Scottish representatives, including those from areas like Elgin and Forres, would now go to the House of Commons of Great Britain in London.
