Ulster Scots people facts for kids
The Ulster Scots are a group of people in Ireland whose families originally came from Scotland and England. Most of them are descendants of Scottish people from the Lowlands and English people from the border areas between Scotland and England. These people started moving to Ireland in large numbers during the 1600s. This movement was part of a plan called the Plantation of Ulster, ordered by James I of England. He took land from Irish noble families, mostly in the area known as Ulster, and gave it to these new settlers.
The term "Ulster-Scots" mainly refers to these settlers from the 17th century. Their families mostly came from places in Scotland like Galloway, Ayrshire, and the Scottish Borders. Some also came from other parts of the Scottish Lowlands and the Scottish Highlands. Over time, many Ulster-Scots moved to other countries, especially to the United States and parts of the British Empire like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. Some also moved to Argentina and Chile in South America.
Contents
Who Are the Ulster Scots?
The Ulster Scots are an ethnic group, which means they share a common history, culture, and often a language or traditions. Their story is closely tied to the history of Ireland and Scotland.
Early Settlers in Ulster
The main wave of Ulster Scots arrived in the 1600s. This was during a time when the English Crown wanted to bring more Protestant settlers into Ireland, especially into the province of Ulster. The land was taken from Irish chiefs and given to Scottish and English settlers. This plan was called the Plantation of Ulster.
These new settlers brought their own ways of life, their language (a form of Scots), and their Protestant religion. They built new towns and farms, changing the landscape of Ulster.
Ulster Scots Around the World
Many Ulster Scots and their descendants later moved from Ireland to other parts of the world. This happened for various reasons, including seeking new opportunities or escaping difficult times.
The Scotch-Irish in America
A very common term for Ulster Scots who moved to what is now the United States is "Scotch-Irish". This term has been used in America since at least the 1700s. It helps to show that these people have both Scottish and Irish roots. They played a big part in the early history and development of the United States.
Other Global Connections
Beyond the United States, Ulster Scots also settled in many countries that were part of the British Empire. This included Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. Their descendants can be found in these countries today, contributing to their diverse cultures.
Images for kids
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Andrew Jackson, seventh President of the United States, was the first of Scots-Irish extraction.
See also
In Spanish: Escoceses del Úlster para niños
