"It's also looking like the Scots are finally going to shake of the Westminster Yoke and vote for independence later in the year. Already they are beginning to deny their role in empire, preferring to blame the English for their collusion in the oppression of empire"

Sorry Stu but you don't say some Scots think this or that way. You statement is a clear generalisation that they "ie the Scots" are now denying their role in empire and blaming the English. I'd say that is a statement which as well as being sweeping isn't particularly correct and neither was it necessary. If you didn't mean it to read that way then fair dos.

I know there are exceptions and daft statements can be found on youtube etc by individuals but most Scots know very well the Scottish involvement in empire etc, in fact some revel in it, but that is history. As for me playing the victim then sorry not so. If folk make what appear to be sweeping statements about one's nation then of course one has the right to reply! And to tell you the truth I'd do the same if the statement had been aimed at the English.

The independence debate is about the here and now and serious commentators and the leading figures etc don't particularly argue about historical issues. It is about what is best for the country now and in the future. I'd say that is especially true on the Yes side as if anything it is the No camp who have occassionally brought up history (ie First World War etc)