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West Lothian
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West Lothian

historical county, Scotland, United Kingdom
Also known as: Linlithgowshire
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Quick Summary

West Lothian is a council area and historic county in southeastern Scotland, located west of Edinburgh on the Firth of Forth. The council area largely encompasses the historic county, with some boundary adjustments.12

Historically, West Lothian was part of the Lothian region and became a separate county by the 16th century, known as Linlithgowshire until the 20th century. It features significant historical sites, including Linlithgow Palace, a former royal residence, and Blackness Castle. The Antonine Wall, a Roman fortification, also had its eastern end in this region.1

During the Industrial Revolution, West Lothian saw growth in coal and iron mining. Today, its economy has shifted towards new industries like electronics, software manufacturing, and biotechnology, with Livingston being a notable center for high-technology firms.1

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. West Lothian
  2. West Lothian
  3. list of cities and towns in the United Kingdom - West Lothian (council area)

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