Attitudes to Immigration in Britain, 1918-1945

Question 1

Context

British Empire

Answer 1

Empire instilled ideas of racial hierarchy and white superiority
Nationalism associated with whiteness
Slavery abolished by the Slavery Abolition Act (1833)

Question 2

Context

Jewish Immigration

Answer 2

1880s + 90s - Antisemitic attacks (pogroms) in Eastern Europe, influx of 50,000 Jews, most in East End
Led to Aliens Act (1905) - Restricted to those who could demonstrate ability to make a living, had £5, genuine political and religious refugees

Question 3

Context

Pre-WW1 Immigration

Answer 3

By 1914, very small estimated 74,000 black and Asian people in urban areas: London, Liverpool, Hull. Newcastle, and Cardiff
Less than 0.1% of total population

Question 4

Context

WW1 Immigration

Answer 4

1 mil Indian soldiers in Europe + ME
500,000 troops recruited from Africa
500,000 West Indian volunteers on Western Front
By 1945, 0.2% of population

Question 5

Context

Reactions to Immigration

Answer 5

1919 race riots
Increase in white racist violence