The Auld Alliance

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

1- 8 1M+2L cross diagonal RH, 1s cross LH diagonal with 2M/3M, 1s cross RH diagonal with 3L/4L, 1L+4M cross LH and all end on opposite sides 1s at bottom
9-16 2s and 1s (end couples) cross RH as 3s+4s dance ½ RH across, 2s facing 4s also 3s facing 1s change places LH on sides and all turn partners RH
17-24 4s+2s dance Allemande while 1s+3s dance an inverse Allemande (to bottom), middle couples (4s+3s) cross LH
25-32 4s and 3s cast to ends and dance into centre to 2nd/3rd places (opposite sides) and dance ½ R&L. 2341

(MINICRIB. Dance crib compiled by Charles Upton, Deeside Caledonian Society, and his successors)

Keith Rose's Crib Diagrams

The Auld Alliance - Full Size And Key To Symbols

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Dance Information

The Scots word auld, meaning old, has become a partly affectionate term for the long-lasting association between the two countries. Although the alliance was never formally revoked, it is considered by some to have ended with the signing of the Treaty of Edinburgh in 1560.

The alliance began with the treaty signed by John Balliol and Philip IV of France in 1295 against Edward I of England. The terms of the treaty stipulated that if either country were attacked by England, the other country would invade English territory. The 1513 Battle of Flodden, where the Scots invaded England in response to the English campaign against France, was one such occasion.

Thomas Randolph, Earl of Moray, negotiated the renewal of the alliance in 1326. The alliance played an important role in the Wars of Scottish Independence, the Hundred Years' War, the War of the League of Cambrai, and the Rough Wooing.

The interplay among Scotland, France, and England was greatly influenced by the alliance during this period. With the exception of Louis XI, all the monarchs from France and Scotland consistently renewed the alliance. By the late 14th century, the renewal occurred regardless of whether either kingdom was at war with England at the time.

Francis II, King Of France, And His Wife, Mary Stuart, Queen Of France And Scotland.
Miniature Taken From Catherine De' Medici's Book Of Hours, Page 154, c. 1573

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