The Gaels have a long history in Nova Scotia and approximately one third of Nova Scotians today have Scottish Gaelic ancestors who settled here in the past. Between 1773 and roughly 1850, 50,000 Scottish Gaels settled in the province, principally on Cape Breton Island and the Eastern Mainland (especially Pictou and Antigonish Counties). In these parts of the province Gaels were the largest ethno-cultural community, and for several generations after settlement into the present day, Gaelic language and culture continued to be practiced in our province. In fact, many communities were majority Gaelic-speaking well into the 20th century before significant out-migration and various assimilationist practices led to a language and cultural shift towards English.

Today, the Nova Scotia Gaelic community is undergoing a revival, and serious efforts are being made to revitalize the Scottish Gaelic language and preserve cultural practices now and for future generations.