What was the purpose of the 2014 Scottish Independence Referendum?

The purpose of the 2014 Scottish Independence Referendum was to ask voters whether Scotland should become an independent country. This was a significant event in Scotland's political history, as it provided the citizens with the opportunity to express their views on Scotland's future status as either an independent nation or as part of the United Kingdom. The referendum was framed around the question of independence, making it a pivotal moment for national identity, governance, and the political landscape within the UK.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the central focus of the referendum. Joining the European Union was a topic discussed during the campaign, but it was not the referendum's primary purpose. The voting on new political parties and reforms for the Scottish Parliament relates to different political processes and decisions, rather than the specific question of Scotland's independence. Thus, the correct choice highlights the union of national identity and the pursuit of self-determination as central themes of the referendum.