The Kingdom of Scotland was a sovereign state that existed from the early medieval period until 1707. It was known for its distinct culture, legal system, and governance. The kingdom was ruled by a series of monarchs, with notable figures such as King Robert the Bruce and Mary, Queen of Scots playing significant roles in its history. In 1707, the Acts of Union united the Kingdom of Scotland with the Kingdom of England to form the Kingdom of Great Britain. This union marked the end of Scotland's status as an independent kingdom, although it retained its own legal and educational systems. Today, Scotland is part of the United Kingdom, with its own devolved parliament.