Experience of immigrants to Scotland, 1830s-1939

Arrival and Adaptation

Most immigrants arrived in Scotland due to reasons like economic opportunities, family ties and escaping political or religious persecution in their home countries.
Immigrants often settled in urban areas due to availability of jobs, particularly in shipbuilding, mining, and textiles.
Many immigrants were integrating into Scottish society, which sometimes led to tensions and prejudices, such as anti-Catholic sentiment against Irish immigrants.

Immigrants significantly contributed to local economies, often taking on low-paid, unskilled or dangerous jobs that were avoided by local workers.
Irish immigrants specifically played a key role in the expansion of the railways and infrastructure development.
The arrival of Lithuanians boosted the coal mining industry, while Italians added to the catering and entertainment sectors.

Immigrants significantly impacted Scotland’s cultural diversity, leading to an enriching mix of customs, traditions, and cuisine.
Irish immigrants also introduced Catholic faith in Scotland dramatically, which reshaped the religious landscape.
Some immigrants and their descendants went on to become prominent figures in Scottish society, contributing to politics, science, and the arts.

The Aliens Act 1905 marked the first legislative attempt to control immigration in Britain, largely fuelled by public and political protest.
Subsequent legislative measures also impacted the immigrant communities, and were met with series of campaigns defending the rights of these communities.
Ethnically diverse populace led to the establishment of various organisations representing their interests, like the Irish National Foresters and the Italian Catholic Society.

The outbreak of WWI affected immigrants significantly. Many signed up to serve in the armed forces for their adopted country.
Post-WW1, returning soldiers needed jobs, leading to increased competition for employment. Political and economic tensions became prominent, leading to the 1924 Immigration Act which sought to control immigration numbers.
Rising anti-foreign sentiment also impacted immigrant populations, evidenced in the 1919 Glasgow race riots.