Scotland may be its own country, but along with England, Northern Ireland, and Wales, it makes up the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. This Thursday, September 18th Scotland will vote on whether to remain a part of the United Kingdom or become completely independent. As a part of the United Kingdom, Scotland has maintained its own education and legal system, but ultimately Queen Elizabeth II has the authority. If Scotland votes to become independent it will break a bond of 307 years. Over 4.2 million people in Scotland are registered to vote on the matter. Until last month votes against the split were in the lead, but there has been a sudden rise in votes for independence. Currently, the votes to remain a part of the union are at 51 percent. Votes for independence are at 49 percent.