Stirlingshire

Stirlingshire is a historic county in the Central Belt of Scotland. Its name derives from its historic county town, Stirling. The county's geography is varied, featuring fertile plains along the River Forth in the south, rising to the rugged hills and mountains of the Highlands in the north, including parts of the Trossachs National Park. Major rivers include the Forth, Teith, and Carron.

Historically, Stirlingshire was a strategically important region, often referred to as the "key of Scotland" due to its position controlling the narrowest crossing point between the Highlands and the Lowlands. It was the site of several significant battles, including the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314 and the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297, both crucial victories for the Scots in their Wars of Independence. Stirling Castle, perched on a volcanic crag, remains a dominant landmark and a symbol of the county's rich past.

Economically, Stirlingshire has traditionally relied on agriculture, particularly in the fertile Forth valley. Industry has also played a role, with coal mining and ironworks developing in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly around towns like Grangemouth, which also became a significant port. Today, the county has a more diversified economy, with a strong service sector and tourism contributing to its prosperity, drawing visitors to its historical sites and natural beauty. The county boundaries have been redefined for administrative purposes, with much of the historical county now part of the Stirling council area, with smaller portions in Falkirk and Clackmannanshire.