The Canso Causeway bridges the Strait of Canso, joining the Island of Cape Breton and mainland Nova Scotia. August 2005 marks the 50th anniversary of the official opening of the causeway, a structure that has profoundly affected the lives of people in the region. The controversy surrounding the building of the link, and the subsequent social changes are included here in personal stories by people who lived during the time it was done. When Canada Joined Cape Breton sometimes laughs at the many obstacles that existed to getting to the mainland before the causeway was built, and sometimes reflects sadly on the sense of loss that was felt by people whose existence was under threat of assimilation. Personal recollections offer an intimate look at what the building of the causeway meant and are interspersed with explanations of the historical facts and construction details or the actual causeway itself. For those interested in Nova Scotia history, or intrigued to see the influence of such a structure has on people’s lives, When Canada Joined Cape Breton will provide a compelling and thoughtful read.