Obadiah O.

Bridgewater, Nova Scotia

South Shore Regional School Board

Gael Force - The Winds Have Changed

My project is about Scottish Heritage in Nova Scotia. Many famous Scots have greatly influenced the history and culture of our country. Today we have many traditions that have been passed down to us from the early Scots. 

 

 

 

What was the most interesting thing you learned about your topic?

The most interesting thing I learned was that the Gaelic language and Scottish bagpipe music have been preserved after all these years since the Gaels first arrived in Nova Scotia in 1773. Even though there were no Gaelic schools for many years the language survived and now we have the Royal Cape Breton Gaelic College in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia and several other institutions across the province dedicated to the preservation of the Gaelic language, music and culture which are all closely linked. Kilts and bagpipes are still a common sight at many celebrations throughout the province.

What important lessons have you learned that you want to share with other Canadians?

I learned that Sir William Alexander gave Nova Scotia its name, flag and Coat of Arms. The early Scots suffered many hardships when they arrived here. The first two prime ministers of Canada were Scotsmen. Also I learned how to make the grand kilt that was worn by the Highlanders in ancient times.

How would you compare your life today to the lives of those studied in your project?

Life today is much easier than the lives of the early settlers. Lands have been cleared and towns and cities have been built. It is much easier to get an education now thanks to the colleges and universities, some of which were established by the Scots, such as Dalhousie University and the Pictou Academy among others.