Ancestry Continues...
I don't even know anyone Scottish, or maybe I do
My first ancestry stated that I am 55% Native American. I am not that much on the rolls of my reservation. I am enrolled as White Earth, removal Fond du Lac. That means I have a lot of relatives in White Earth and a lot of relatives in Fond du Lac.
My next percentage is 14% and comes from England and Northwestern Europe. Then the next one is Scotland at 13%. I had no idea that I even knew any Scottish people, and here Scotland is part of my ancestry.
I always thought we were Irish, and we are 1%. Not enough to celebrate every St. Patrick's Day with green frosting every year growing up, however. The explanation is that Dad's name was Patrick, and he was born on March 17, 1923.
And even though my dad died on my tenth birthday, we continued to celebrate St. Patrick's Day every year with the cake with the green frosting.
I didn't see much red hair in our relatives, but did see freckles, and thought they must have come from a different ancestry. The pride and modesty, being reserved and having hospitality, strong loyalty, and independence, I attributed to our Native American ancestry.
A love for music, storytelling, and the outdoors are all common with the Native American, so I suppose that would be the qualities that brought them together.
I didn't see many green eyes, but rather hazel that appeared green at times. Then there is a blue-eyed Grandfather, and there are blue-eyed grandchildren. I had freckles when I was young. No longer. I have seen freckles from other relatives.
Strong jawlines and cheekbones are common. Again, I thought the high cheekbones came from the Native American. And it may come from both. Then there is loyalty connected with clan history. I relate well to this.
The artistic nature is something very strong in our Native people and in my family, as most are artists. Then there is humor. When spending time with my Dad's side of the family, laughter was non-stop. People's faces would turn red, and they would laugh until they couldn't laugh anymore.
It was such fun times with family and the teasing and joking that went on with them. We had so much fun together. Education was encouraged in our families. Both finishing high school and continuing education beyond high school. It has been strongly valued.
AI Summary: Traits associated with Scottish ancestry include a genetic predisposition for red hair, blue or green eyes, and pale skin with freckles, though physical appearances are diverse due to varied ancestry like Gaelic and Viking influences. Culturally, Scots often exhibit a combination of qualities like pride and modesty, reservedness and warm hospitality, strong loyalty and independence, and a love for music, storytelling, and the outdoors. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
Common Physical Traits
Hair and Eye Color: A higher-than-average prevalence of red hair, along with blue and green eyes, is common due to genetic factors found in people with Celtic and Gaelic ancestry. [1, 2, 11]
Skin: Pale skin, often accompanied by freckling, is a frequent trait. [1, 2]
Facial Features: Strong jawlines and high cheekbones are noted features, contributing to an angular appearance. [2]
Build: While there is variation, a sturdy, muscular build suitable for physical labor was historically common, though this varies by region (e.g., Highlanders were often wiry). [2, 12]
Common Personality & Behavioral Traits
Pride and Modesty: Scots are known for being fiercely proud of their heritage while also being famously modest. [7]
Warmth and Hospitality: Despite initial reserve, they are often described as warm, welcoming, and hospitable people. [6, 7]
Loyalty: A strong sense of loyalty, deeply connected to clan history, is a significant aspect of their identity. [8]
Creativity and Resilience: Scotland has a rich history of artistic creation and invention, with people also possessing a resilient, determined nature. [5, 13, 14]
Love for Community: There is a strong sense of community and a love for social gatherings like ceilidhs. [13, 15]
Humor and Emotion: Scots are known for their humor, sometimes with a touch of self-deprecation, and for an emotional depth that can be reserved but is also expressed dramatically. [4, 5, 7, 16, 17]
Cultural & Historical Traits
Love of Arts & Storytelling: Music, storytelling, and literature are deeply appreciated, with a significant tradition of poetry and song. [5]
Connection to Nature: There is a profound love for Scotland's natural beauty. [13]
Heritage and Identity: A fierce pride in their history, identity, and independence is a core value. [7, 8]
Value of Education: There is a well-known importance placed on education and looking after others. [13]
AI responses below may include mistakes.
[1] https://www.quora.com/What-are-some-examples-of-Scottish-genetic-traits
[2] https://houseofargyll.com/the-unique-look-of-scottish-people/
[3] https://hackmd.io/@tartanvibesclothing/By3ZTVNXyg
[4] https://www.travelswithakilt.com/scottish-traits/
[5] https://scotlandinmyheartsite.wordpress.com/2016/01/09/about-scottish-people/
[6] https://www.scotland.org/about-scotland/our-people
[7] https://www.facebook.com/clanthompson/posts/scots-are-known-for-their-fierce-independence-yet-they-hold-an-unshakable-sense-/1237508038376970/
[8] https://www.europeanproceedings.com/article/10.15405/epsbs.2022.11.45
[9] https://www.doreebonner.co.uk/10-reasons-people-move-to-scotland/
[10] https://roxmanug.wordpress.com/2013/07/10/the-scottish-people/
[11] https://scotstee.com/blogs/scotland-s-red-hair-heritage-myths-and-facts
[12] https://www.scottish-at-heart.com/scottish-people.html
[13] https://www.quora.com/What-are-common-personality-traits-found-among-Scottish-people-How-do-you-act-in-a-proper-way-to-such-traits
[14] https://www.heartboxscotland.com/the-rich-tapestry-of-scottish-culture-and-traditions/
[15] https://clan.com/help/clans-culture-arts/clans-politics-statecraft
[16] https://www.reddit.com/r/Scotland/comments/10tbhrn/what_is_in_your_opinion_the_defining_traits_of/
[17] https://www.quora.com/What-are-Scottish-personality-stereotypes
About the Creator
Denise E Lindquist
I am married with 7 children, 28 grands, and 13 great-grandchildren. I am a culture consultant part-time. I write A Poem a Day in February for 8 years now. I wrote 4 - 50,000 word stories in NaNoWriMo. I write on Vocal/Medium daily.


Comments (4)
Ancestry....a place where the old folks can sit back and lovingly laugh at our feebleness, but at the same time cheer us on.
Such a beautiful blend of ancestry and family memories.
It's always so fascinating to learn about these things!
Good job. Actually, I thought I was more German, but actually my last name is Scottish believe it or not. I do have some red in my beard when I grew it out, but now more brown with streaks of grey.