Returning from his visit to the US Salmond said the event had generated “enormous interest” in Scotland.

All three Presidential candidates sent messages of support for Tartan Day and the Scotland Week celebrations and all claimed Scottish ancestry.

Senator Barack Obama was proud to recognise the 10th Anniversary of the Senate’s resolution commemorating Tartan Day.

“It is important to celebrate the historic relationship between the United States and Scotland, and the great contributions Scottish Americans have made.”

Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton said: “I want to extend my congratulations to the millions of Americans of Scottish descent during the April 6 celebration of National Tartan Day.”

While Senator John McCain added: “Marking April 6 as National Tartan Day helps raise awareness among all Americans of the great contributions made by their fellow countrymen of Scottish descent.”

President Bush also recognised the Scottish heritage of many Founding Fathers, past Presidents and Justices of the United States Supreme Court. He spoke of the contribution Scottish Americans had made to American culture, and scientific, educational and civic institutions.

He said: “The Declaration of Arbroath, the Scottish Declaration of Independence signed in 1320, embodied the Scots' strong dedication to liberty, and the Scots brought that tradition of freedom with them to the New World.

“Sons and daughters of many Scottish clans were among the first immigrants to settle in America, and their determination and optimism helped build our Nation's character.”