The word "tartan" is derived from the Old French word "tiretain," which in turn comes from the Late Latin word "tartarinus," meaning "from Tartary" (a region in Central Asia).
Meaning
Tartan refers to a woven woolen cloth with a distinctive pattern consisting of intersecting stripes and checks, typically associated with Scottish Highland culture.
Origin
The origin of the tartan pattern is uncertain, but there are several theories:
Celtic Origins: Some believe that the tartan pattern originated with the Celts, who used it to identify their clans.
Scandinavian Influence: Others suggest that the pattern was introduced to Scotland by the Vikings, who brought similar patterns from their homeland.
Norman Influence: It is also possible that the tartan pattern was influenced by the Norman invaders of England, who brought their own textile patterns with them.
Development in Scotland
Tartans became associated with Scottish clans from the 16th century onwards.
Each clan developed its own unique tartan pattern, which was used to distinguish them from other clans.
The wearing of tartan was banned by the British government during the Jacobite uprisings in the 18th century, but the ban was lifted in the 19th century.
Today, tartan is used in a wide variety of clothing and accessories, both in Scotland and around the world.
