Dundee

Dundee, major industrial city, royal burgh, and seaport of eastern Scotland. Dundee is the fourth largest city of Scotland by population. It constitutes the council area of Dundee City in the historic county of Angus. About 40 miles (64 km) north of Edinburgh, it is situated on the northern bank of the North Sea inlet known as the Firth of Tay, which is crossed there by the Tay road and rail bridges; Dundee’s frontage on the Tay exceeds 8 miles (13 km). The city extends from the Tay to the Dundee Law, which is a prominent volcanic plug with an elevation of 571 feet (174 metres).

The earliest mention of the town dates from the late 12th or early 13th century, when it was designated a royal burgh (town). The next four or five centuries saw repeated sackings of the town and much bloodshed at the hands of the English. Dundee was created a city in 1892 and an autonomous county burgh in 1894. Fishing was important in Dundee from early times, and one of Scotland’s largest whaling fleets came to be based there. The city’s traditional textile manufactures became closely linked with whaling in the 19th century after the discovery that jute fibre, when mixed with whale oil, could be woven into sacking for bags and carpet backing. Dundee then emerged as a world centre for jute manufacturing, and the city grew rapidly. Textiles—including linen, canvas, rope, and carpet—are still produced, but since World War II large numbers of workers have been employed in new light manufactures. Dundee is also known for its production of confectionery and preserves, particularly marmalade. During the late 20th century Dundee’s manufacturing sectors gradually declined, and service activities played an increasingly important role in the city’s economy. Dundee became a prominent educational and research centre, with special strengths in information technology and biotechnology research and development.

Few historic buildings and only one town gate (the East Port) have survived the city’s turbulent past. The City Churches, a collection of three parish churches housed under one roof, remain as a focal point in the modern glass-and-concrete city centre. Slum clearance has removed many of Dundee’s old streets, courtyards, and buildings. The University of Dundee dates to 1881; it gained independent university status in 1967. Other educational institutions include the University of Abertay Dundee and Dundee International College. Broughty Ferry, once a separate burgh and favourite residence of wealthy Dundee merchants, is now incorporated within the city. Area 25 square miles (65 square km). Pop. (2001) 145,560; (2011) 147,390.