Alba---the Gaelic term for Scotland.

Auld Alliance---treaty between Scotland and France in which each country agreed to assist the other against England. First signed in October 1295, and renewed several times afterward.

Bracken---Widespread throughout the Highlands, this fern was used for bedding, both for people and animals, and for thatching, though it was considered inferior to heather for these purposes. Boiled roots of the plant yielded a yellow dye and the fronds a dye of lime green. The roots also furnished a medicine against intestinal worms.

Census---the first government census took place in Scotland in 1801.

Distilling---the distilling of whiskey in Scotland is a very old industry, its initial history shrouded in myth and conjecture. By the sixteenth century aqua vitae---usque baugh in Gaelic--- was being distilled on an impressive scale in small pot stills, primarily in the Highlands. So extensive was this activity that several Acts of Parliament were passed in an effort to restrict malt-making for distilling in times of poor harvests or famine.

Dogs---The Kennel Club recognizes twelve breeds of dog as being Scottish:

Reptiles---the only snake found in Scotland is the adder (Vipera berus).

Thistle---the thistle has been used in Scottish heraldry for over 500 years, but it is not certain which of the following native or naturalized thistles have been represented: