I had heard of paper Bermudians and also someone who has been Bermudianised, which I think refers to those who had about 15 years time-in about 15 years ago, those at the time could qualify for status.

a 'Paper' Bermudian is one who has aquired their status other than by birth ('Born' Bermudian) hence they have papers to prove it.

I had understood that by Bermudian terms, the high-end jobs were filled by "ex-pats" and that the "guest workers" were the gardeners, hair dressers, waiters, and nannies.

Didn't know the extent of divisive until I came to Bermuda...

Intro to Divisive --- Racism = Bermuda

Honestly...

I never knew there were so many classifications with which to divide.......

I wish I was still naive in that respect....

It really does demonstrate part of the nature of the place. 

I always smile when I get the opportunity to introduce two Bermudians.  They go through this 'butt sniffing' phase to sort out their respective rank.  It starts with the 'who are your people' interrogation, goes to the 'how long after the Deliverance' queries, then through the one degree of separation, 'who do you know that knows me' finale.

Is it because the place is small enough that it's conceivable you could know everyone?

Butt sniffing? Mike?

I don't know , but I don't like how you put that.

It is entirely conceivable that you could know who the next person is, by association. Like Bluenoser says, this is not just peculiar to Bermuda, but to any small community. I have even seen big city people do it here when they bump into another from their City. I for one take pride in who I know.... and who knows me.  My father is very well known and respected, and I take pride in that. I am known as "Pincher's Bye" to the older folks in Somerset.... from back in the days where Somerset was its own seperate community and you could practically tell from a persons looks as to where they were from. I find that my associations have helped me immensely in my profession, and a friendly little catch up of common associates can open doors.

everybody knows the expression, its just those Somerset byes is a little slow on the up take

Fedup or they are very sensitive/touchy