In 1977 a, then little known, Scotsman renounced his United Kingdom citizenship and formed the Pictish Free State in the Pictland of Alba.

Brian Robertson (1947 - ), now known as Robbie the Pict, formed the State with one acre of land near Tote, south of Staffen on the Isle of Skye. Today the Pictish Free State owns in excess of 1000 acres after being added to by supporters of the State.

Robbie, who is a psychology graduate and member of Mensa, has been prosecuted over 300 times by the Police for ignoring 'British laws', all trivial. Robbie runs the State from the Pictish High Commission and drives with Diplomatic Corps number plates, a fact which would normally allow him freedom from prosecution. Yet, unfortunately the British Government do not recognise Pictland despite its historical credentials.

Every year the members of the State celebrate Dunnichen Day. A national holiday to commemorate the victory of Nechtansmere when King Brude of Pictland defeated King Ecgfrith of Northumberland in 685 AD. The members hold a remembrance ceremony on Dunnichen Hill, over looking the ancient battlefield.

Robbie is often unfairly seen as a rather eccentric character who has decided to drop out of mainstream society. However, many know him to be a highly intelligent, highly motivated man who is merely trying to reawaken interest in Pictish culture following centuries of English subversion. His right to be a Pict is a valid one and he has countless supporters throughout the world who share his desire.

Robbie remains unmoved by the refusal of the British Government to recognise the Pictish Free State. Indeed, he knows that the Picts have more right to govern than the English and he in turn refuses to acknowledge their government by ignoring their laws. Quite right too.

Highlander Web Magazine supports all members of the Pictish Free State in their cause.

Learn More About The Picts Through The Pictish Trail

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