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Despite the prominence of religious issues in the historiography of Restoration Scotland, understanding of the position of the Kirk in the Highlands remains sparse. This article seeks to address this lacuna through analysis of two related themes. Firstly, it looks at provision, discussing the Kirk's financial, material and manpower resources, as well as the challenge posed by Gaelic. Secondly, it traces the extent of Nonconformity, both Presbyterian and Roman Catholic, with a view to judging the degree of adherence to the established Episcopalian structure. It concludes that the Kirk, while facing challenges, retained a position of unrivalled religious dominance. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Focuses on the breakup of the Established Church of Scotland on May 18, 1843, with the walkout of the Evangelical party at the Church of Scotland's annual general meeting. Unity created by the disestablishment; Factors influencing the breakup, including theological liberalism; Effects of the rapid spread of the campaign.