Did Scotland Have a Black King?

Among the numerous myths and legends surrounding Scotland's rich and complex history, one stands out as particularly intriguing and somewhat fictional: the idea of a black king ruling over Scotland. This notion was popularized by the late Ugandan President Idi Amin, who, in his delusions, claimed to be the last king of Scotland. This claim, however, is rooted in pure fiction and bears no historical truth.

Idi Amin and the Last King Theory

Idi Amin, the military dictator of Uganda from 1971 to 1979, was known for his brutal rule and erratic behavior. In his later years, Amin became increasingly delusional and claimed to be the king of Scotland. His claim, although audacious and without any factual basis, gained attention due to the success of the novel and subsequent film adaptation, The Last King of Scotland.

The Novel and Film

The Last King of Scotland, written by journalist Giles Foden, published by Faber and Faber in 1998, tells the fictional story of Nicholas Garrigan, a Scottish doctor who ends up working for Idi Amin as his personal physician and confidant during the 1970s. The novel weaves together historical facts with a fictional narrative, exploring the complex relationship between Garrigan and Amin.

The film adaptation, released in the same year, brought the story to life and garnered critical acclaim. Amin's delusion that he was the king of Scotland, an assertion without any historical foundation, became a central theme in both the novel and the film, adding to the intrigue and controversy of the narrative.

Scottish Kings: The Reality

Scotland has had many kings throughout its lengthy and dynamic history, but the idea of a black king holding the throne is historically and linguistically nonsensical. Scotland’s kings are documented in various chronicles and historical accounts, from the ancient Pictish kings to the more recent figureheads like King James VI and later King James VII. None of these kings were of African descent, and there is no record of a black king ruling over Scotland.

Idi Amin's Bid for Power and delusions

Idi Amin's extravagant claims were a product of his mental state and the severe delusions that plagued him during his later years. This delusion played into a broader narrative that mixed fact and fiction, blurring the lines between reality and the imagination. Such claims about Amin’s supposed rule over Scotland were more of a reflection of his erratic behavior and a symptom of his deteriorating mental health rather than a factual statement.

Conclusion

While Idi Amin's claim to be the last king of Scotland is a fascinating and dramatic element in the world of literature and film, it does not stand up to historical scrutiny. Scotland has a well-documented and rich history, but it is entirely devoid of any recorded instances of a black king. Understanding the distinction between historical fact and the invented narratives of fiction is crucial in appreciating the true complexity and vibrancy of Scotland's past.