The Mi'kmaq Indians, who lived undisturbed for thousands of years, originally settled Nova Scotia. John Cabot was the first European to step ashore, reaching Cape Breton Island in the late 15th Century. While the French were first to settle here, King James I of England proclaimed the area New Scotland, or Nova Scotia in Latin. The French and British fought bitterly over the area, with the French finally ceding the land in 1713 after signing the Treaty of Utrecht.
Sydney is Nova Scotia's third largest city. With over 26,000 people calling Sydney home, the city has certainly come a long way from its roots as a British Loyalist haven. In 1785, Loyalists from New York decided to settle here and remain under British rule. Soon after, immigrants from Scotland arrived. Sydney didn't explode population-wise until the early 20th Century, when a steel plant opened in town, attracting people from all over Nova Scotia. Coal was discovered in mines nearby, and even more people came to Sydney.
Sadly, all of this industry fouled up the environment around Sydney, and only now is the city taking proactive steps to fix the problem. More land has been designated for parks, and the people of Sydney have taken an active interest in repairing the damage done by their parents and grandparents.
Today, Sydney is a town trying to forge a new identity as a naturalist's haven and a cultural center. There are museums that have preserved Sydney's roots, as well as outdoor adventure companies to cater to those who want a closer look at Sydney's natural beauty.
