Why Scots Settled in Nova Scotia

Scottish Migration to Nova Scotia (17th Century Onward)

Key reasons:

• Religious persecution: Presbyterians fleeing Anglican oppression in Scotland.
• Economic opportunity: Poverty in Scotland; chance to own land.
• Political instability: 17th-century turmoil in Scotland; Nova Scotia seen as stable.
• Adventure: Frontier appeal for explorers and risk-takers.

Today, over 1 million Nova Scotians claim Scottish descent – the highest proportion in Canada.