What did Scotland gain by the act of union?

By the Act of Union of 1707, Scotland gained several advantages, including:

Representation in the Parliament of Great Britain: Scotland gained representation in the Parliament of Great Britain, which was created by the union of the parliaments of England and Scotland. This allowed Scottish representatives to participate in the lawmaking process and have a say in matters affecting the whole of Great Britain.

Free Trade with England and the Colonies: The Act of Union removed trade barriers between Scotland and England, allowing for free trade between the two countries. This boosted the Scottish economy by providing access to new markets and resources. Additionally, Scottish merchants gained access to England's colonies and the benefits of the British Empire's trade network.

Preservation of Scottish Institutions: The Act of Union guaranteed the preservation of several key Scottish institutions, including the Church of Scotland, the Scottish legal system, and the educational system. This helped maintain Scottish identity and culture while integrating Scotland into the broader British state.

Financial Assistance: Scotland received financial assistance from England in the form of a "Equivalent Grant." This grant was designed to compensate Scotland for its share of the English national debt and to support various public works projects in Scotland.

Access to English Capital and Resources: The union with England provided Scotland with access to English capital and resources, which facilitated economic development and modernization in Scotland. This influx of capital and expertise contributed to the growth of industries such as textiles, iron, and coal mining in Scotland.

Overall, the Act of Union brought about significant economic, political, and cultural benefits for Scotland, while preserving many of its unique institutions and traditions.