Some are also related to the Loyalists who fled the southern United States during the American Revolution and built enormous plantations here. After the abolition of slavery, life in the islands changed drastically. The lack of fertile cropland prompted the islanders to become a nation of seafarers, and Bahamians used these skills to great advantage during the days of shipwrecking, gun running, and Prohibition. Bahamians take great pride in their past , especially their names, which are indicative of a rich cultural legacy. It has been said that the Bethels once spelled their name with two 'l's', but removed one because of their religious convictions.
Religion is an integral part of Bahamian life.
Even the tiniest village has a church, sometimes two. The people's religious ardor and high regard for education are evidence of their Puritan heritage, derived from the Eleutheran Adventurers. Music is also in the very bones of the people. African rhythms, Caribbean Calypso, English folk songs and the uniquely Bahamian Goombay beat echo in the air. The legal and political institutions of the country reflect its Anglo-Saxon heritage.