Why Did the Hebrides Finally Choose Scotland Over Norway?

For over four centuries, the windswept Outer Hebrides and surrounding isles were part of a Norse dominion, a vast sea-empire where Norwegian kings ruled over rugged territories with longboats and lawmen. But by the late 13th century, this Norse grip was slipping. In 1266, with the signing of the Treaty of Perth, the Hebrides were officially transferred from Norwegian to Scottish sovereignty. But what led to this dramatic shift in allegiance?

The answer, like the islands themselves, is layered, stormy, and soaked in a cocktail of war, diplomacy, betrayal, and cultural change. This is the story of how the Hebrides—once loyal outposts of Viking kings—chose the lion of Scotland over the dragon of Norway.