The importance of geography: The experience and commemoration of the two world wars in Shetland

Abstract

A littoral or island location is significant in determining how a community is impacted by war. Shetland’s location has been integral to its history, and this chapter investigates how the Shetlanders’ experience and commemoration of the two world wars was shaped by it. The islands’ position relative to the UK mainland and Northern European countries, their harbours, maritime economy, even their weather significantly affected both the armed services and civilians, during the wars and in their aftermath. These factors did not change and the wars were fought between the same principal protagonists within a short time-frame. There were important differences between them, however, showing how the influence of geography has limitations, as developments in communications, warfare technology and attitudes can lead to diverse results.