My ancestors were from Sutherland (my name is one of the small towns up there) and they were 'cleared'. (Clan Mackay) Fortunately they found work as fishermen, seamen and various things connected with the sea and gradually migrated down to NE England.

I once watched the musical 'The Cheviot, the Stag and The Black, Black Oil' in Edinburgh.(written by John McGrath) It portrays very evocatively the whole disgusting process of the Clearances and the cold-hearted unfeeling attitude of the landowners. Also the absolute exploitation of the area by a succession of predators with no roots or right to be there.
As I sat in the theatre I was careful not to use my English accent when talking to my companion. Luckily I can speak a very passable Scottish accent, so I passed muster. The atmosphere among the audience was electric with indignation and anger!