5.1 Patterns of Indian migration to the UK after 1947
2 min read•july 22, 2024
Indian migration to the UK after 1947 occurred in distinct waves. The brought male workers from Punjab and Gujarat to fill labor shortages. Later waves saw , East African Indian arrivals, and .
Various factors drove this migration, including political events like Partition and in Britain. Indian immigrants concentrated in urban areas, forming vibrant communities in cities like London, Birmingham, and Leicester.
Post-1947 Indian Migration to the UK
Waves of Indian migration post-1947
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- First wave (1950s-1960s)
- Predominantly male migrants originating from Punjab and Gujarat regions of India
- Actively recruited by British industries to address labor shortages in sectors such as textiles and manufacturing (cotton mills)
- (1960s-1970s)
- Characterized by family reunification as wives and children joined the initial male migrants in the UK
- Significant influx of following their expulsion from countries like Uganda (1972) and Kenya
- (1980s-present)
- Primarily consists of skilled professionals, including doctors, engineers, and IT specialists (software developers)
- Increasing number of Indian students pursuing higher education opportunities in British universities (Oxford, Cambridge)
Factors driving post-colonial Indian migration
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- and migration triggered by the in 1947 (formation of India and Pakistan)
- Forced expulsion of Indian communities from East African nations during the 1960s and 1970s ()
- Economic factors
- in key sectors of the British economy (construction, transportation)
- Active recruitment of Indian workers to fill critical gaps in industries such as healthcare ()
- Pursuit of better economic prospects and higher wages compared to opportunities available in India (poverty alleviation)
Distribution of Indian immigrants in UK
- Concentration in urban areas
- London hosts the largest Indian population, particularly in neighborhoods like Southall (Little India) and Wembley
- Significant Indian communities in other major cities such as Birmingham (Handsworth), Manchester, and Leicester (Belgrave)
- Regional variations
- predominantly settled in the West Midlands (Wolverhampton) and Greater London
- mainly concentrated in Leicester and North West England (Bolton)
Colonial ties in Indian migration patterns
- Historical connections
- Prolonged period of in India spanning from the 18th century until independence in 1947
- Widespread English language proficiency among educated Indians resulting from the colonial education system ()
- Citizenship and legal rights
- The British Nationality Act of 1948 granted citizenship rights to Commonwealth subjects, including Indians (British passport holders)
- Right of entry and settlement in the UK for Commonwealth citizens remained in place until the Commonwealth Immigrants Act of 1962
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- Extensive exposure to British culture and institutions during the colonial era (cricket, tea culture)
- Relative ease of integration for Indian immigrants due to their adaptation to British social norms and values (work ethic, family values)
Key Terms to Review (21)
Africanization Policies: Africanization policies refer to a set of initiatives aimed at promoting African culture, languages, and governance structures, often implemented in post-colonial contexts to empower indigenous populations. These policies were particularly relevant as African countries sought to reclaim their identities and promote local leadership following European colonial rule, influencing both the social fabric and migration patterns of Indian communities in various regions.
British Colonial Rule: British colonial rule refers to the period when Britain controlled vast territories around the world, particularly in India, from the 17th century until the mid-20th century. This rule was characterized by political, economic, and cultural domination, shaping the social landscape of colonized regions and influencing migration patterns, particularly after India gained independence in 1947.
British Nationality Act 1948: The British Nationality Act 1948 was legislation that established the concept of British citizenship and defined the rights of individuals from Commonwealth countries to settle in the UK. This act significantly impacted migration patterns by allowing citizens from India and other Commonwealth nations to come to the UK without restriction, creating a new wave of immigration in the years following its enactment.
Commonwealth Immigrants Act 1962: The Commonwealth Immigrants Act 1962 was a significant piece of legislation enacted in the United Kingdom that aimed to restrict immigration from Commonwealth countries. This act marked a pivotal shift in immigration policy by introducing new regulations that made it more difficult for citizens from Commonwealth nations, including India, to settle in the UK, reflecting changing attitudes towards immigration during that time.
Cultural Familiarity: Cultural familiarity refers to the degree of understanding, knowledge, and comfort an individual or group has with the cultural practices, norms, values, and beliefs of another culture. This concept plays a crucial role in migration contexts, as it influences how migrants adapt to and integrate into their new environment, especially regarding their experiences in a foreign country.
East African Indians: East African Indians are people of Indian descent who migrated to East Africa, particularly Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, largely as laborers and traders. Their migration was influenced by the British colonial economy and has led to a unique cultural blending, influencing the social and economic fabric of the region. Post-1947, many East African Indians began migrating to the UK due to political unrest and changing policies in East Africa.
Economic opportunities: Economic opportunities refer to the chances or prospects individuals have to improve their financial situation through employment, entrepreneurship, or investments. In the context of Indian migration, these opportunities often drive people to seek better living standards, career advancements, and improved quality of life in different regions around the world.
English-medium schools: English-medium schools are educational institutions where the primary language of instruction is English, regardless of the students' native languages. These schools often aim to provide students with a strong command of English, which is seen as essential for success in a globalized world and particularly valuable for those migrating to countries like the UK.
Family reunification: Family reunification refers to the process through which immigrants can bring their family members to join them in the host country. This concept is especially relevant in the context of migration, as it addresses the emotional and social needs of migrants who seek to establish a stable life while being connected to their loved ones. The importance of family reunification is heightened in discussions of immigration policies, which often prioritize keeping families together amid migration patterns.
First wave: The first wave refers to the initial significant migration of Indians to the UK, which began after India's independence in 1947. This period saw a large influx of Indians seeking better economic opportunities, education, and a new life in a post-colonial context, with many settling in urban areas and contributing to the multicultural fabric of British society.
Gujarati Hindus: Gujarati Hindus are individuals of Indian descent, primarily from the state of Gujarat, who practice Hinduism. This group has played a significant role in the patterns of migration from India to the UK after 1947, contributing to the cultural and economic landscape of the diaspora.
Mass displacement: Mass displacement refers to the large-scale movement of people from one region to another, often due to factors such as conflict, persecution, economic hardship, or environmental changes. In the context of Indian migration to the UK after 1947, mass displacement highlights the significant shifts in population that occurred as many individuals sought better opportunities and safety in a new country following the partition of India.
NHS: The National Health Service (NHS) is the publicly funded healthcare system in the United Kingdom, established in 1948. It provides a comprehensive range of health services, including primary care, hospital treatment, and preventive services, all free at the point of use for residents. The NHS plays a critical role in the context of migration patterns to the UK, as it has attracted many Indian migrants who sought both employment and access to healthcare for themselves and their families.
Partition of India: The Partition of India refers to the division of British India into two independent dominions, India and Pakistan, which took place on August 15, 1947. This historic event not only marked the end of British colonial rule but also led to significant demographic shifts and violence, deeply influencing the Indian diaspora and shaping migration patterns globally.
Political Factors: Political factors refer to the elements related to government policies, political stability, regulations, and relationships between countries that influence migration patterns. In the context of migration from India to the UK after 1947, these factors include changes in immigration laws, political relationships between India and the UK, and the impact of British colonial history on migration opportunities and challenges faced by Indian migrants.
Post-world war ii labor shortages: Post-World War II labor shortages refer to the significant gaps in the workforce that emerged in many countries following the end of the Second World War. These shortages were characterized by a demand for workers in various industries, particularly in the UK, where the economy was rebuilding and needed skilled and unskilled labor to support growth and development.
Punjabi Sikhs: Punjabi Sikhs are members of the Sikh community who originate from the Punjab region of India. They have a distinct cultural identity shaped by their religious beliefs, language, and historical experiences, particularly regarding migration and settlement patterns following events like the partition of India in 1947.
Second wave: The term 'second wave' refers to the significant surge of Indian migration to the UK that occurred after 1947, following India's independence from British rule. This migration was characterized by a shift in demographics and patterns, as individuals and families moved for various reasons including economic opportunities, educational prospects, and family reunification. The second wave not only increased the Indian diaspora in the UK but also had lasting impacts on the cultural, social, and economic landscape of both nations.
Skilled professionals: Skilled professionals refer to individuals who possess specialized knowledge, education, and training in a particular field or occupation, enabling them to perform tasks with a high level of expertise. This group has played a significant role in the economic and social integration of migrants, particularly after 1947 when many skilled professionals from India began migrating to countries like the UK, seeking better opportunities and contributing to various sectors.
Third Wave: The term 'third wave' refers to a significant period of Indian migration that took place from the 1980s onwards, characterized by a new generation of migrants who were largely driven by economic opportunities and the desire for higher education. This wave is marked by a shift in migration patterns, as it includes not only those seeking manual labor but also professionals and students moving to countries like the UK. The third wave reflects broader global trends in migration and highlights the changing demographics and aspirations of Indian migrants.
Urban Concentration: Urban concentration refers to the increasing density of populations and economic activities in urban areas, often leading to the growth of megacities and large metropolitan regions. This phenomenon is closely tied to migration patterns, where individuals move from rural to urban areas seeking better opportunities, and is particularly relevant in understanding historical migration trends and the socio-economic implications for both sending and receiving countries.