A tradition that survived suppression and revival
Tartan and the kilt endured a period of suppression under the 1746 Dress Act, but after its repeal in 1782 they were rediscovered and embraced as symbols of Scottish identity, spreading widely from that point on. That history is a good example of how the meaning of a traditional garment can shift significantly over time.
Clan tartans: a newer tradition than most people assume
It is widely assumed that a specific tartan tied to each clan or surname goes back into deep antiquity, but the system of clan-specific tartans was, in fact, largely organized and commercially spread during the late 18th and 19th centuries -- a comparatively modern convention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an official tartan tied to my surname?
Today, many surnames and clans do have an officially registered tartan associated with them, but that registration system itself was largely organized starting in the late 18th century. This differs from the popular assumption that every surname has had its own distinct tartan since ancient times.
Why was the kilt banned for a period?
After suppressing the Jacobite rising of 1745, the British government, concerned about further unrest in the Highlands, enacted the 1746 Dress Act banning traditional Highland dress. The law was repealed in 1782.