By Peter Galloway

The Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle was instituted by King James VII (of Scotland) and II (of England) in 1687 to recognize the loyalty of those who governed Scotland in his name. From those early years and through eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, when political allegiance was often foremost in the selection of a knight, the Order of the Thistle has matured into an honour that recognizes Scots men and women of outstanding reputation and pre-eminent service, both in Scotland and on the wider stage.

This history of the Order is the result of years of careful research, and disposes of many of the myths surrounding its origins. The author traces the history, development and progress of Scotland's national order of knighthood and the changing face of political life in Scotland from the seventeenth to the twenty-first centuries, and illuminates it by reference to the many colourful and sometimes eccentric personalities that have featured in its life and contributed to its reputation. This book is the first full account of the history of this great Scottish Order, its insignia and its members.

Spink, 2010. Quarto, pp. xx, 466. Casebound in cloth, gilt, paper jacket. 45 beautiful colour plates. Foreword by Prince Philip.

To place your order please contact the Book Department at Spink.

Tel: (44) 207 563 4046 or email: [email protected]

£75