Cape Breton is the highland heart of Nova Scotia. Up until the late 1700's, Cape Breton had been just another pawn in France and Britain's struggle for control of the Maritime territories. Between 1760 and 1850 however, Nova Scotia (New Scotland) saw a great influx of Scottish settlers, many of whom settled on the Island of Cape Breton and whose influence can still be felt there. It is estimated that over thirty thousand Scots came to Nova Scotia between 1815 and 1851. Since then, people of Scottish descent have made up a significant proportion of the province's population, and the Scottish presence is perhaps most strongly felt in Cape Breton. Features this week: King MacBeth - this week's Famous Scot All about "The Kilt" Clan of the Week: Clan Kinnaird Cut to: Scottish Film The highlands and coastal wilderness in Cape Breton are said to be strikingly similar to the Scottish Highlands. The fiddle and bagpipe have long been familiar sounds on the island, and the area has recently exported a rash of musicians who are bringing Celtic music to a wider audience. St. Ann's Gaelic College in Baddeck, actively cultivates Scottish culture in Cape Breton. Its students study fiddling, bagpiping, Gaelic, and Highland Dancing, and summer festivals attract people of all heritages. Of course, Cape Breton was also a favorite of another Scot, Alexander Graham Bell. Much of his work took place at his summer home in Baddeck. Today, visitors to the Island can explore the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, commemorating the inventor's life and work. Links: Cape Breton Culture Cape Breton Net Cape Breton Maps