How far did British society change 1939-1975 (Part 3)

How far did British society change 1939-1975 (Part 3)

1. Why immigrants came from the Caribben

   • About 10,000 West Indies fought for Britain in WW2 , many with permanent jobs
   • Previous immigrants had success there, returning workers very positive about their experiences in Britian
   • Unemployment in Caribbean major problem, hurricanes devastated Jamaica 1944 and 1951
   • British culture was impressive, education system and industry widely respected
   • In 1954, 24,000 West Indies arrived in Britain, by 1958, 115,000 immigrants from Caribbean in Britain

2. East Asian immigrants from Africa

   • Most Asians immigrated due to persecution, 20,000 came to Britain
   • In 1972, President of Uganda expelled 50,000 Asians, many coming to Britain

3. East Asian immigrants from India and Pakistan

   • Most came to Britain or economic reasons
   • Many Sikhs served for British army in India, so employment options in Britain appealed to them
   • Many also let after violence and unrest between different groups after Indian independence in 1947

4. Experiences of immigrants in Britain

   • Decent accommodation difficult to obtain
   • Immigrants needed to live 5 years in Britain before applying for council housing
   • Banks often refused loans to immigrants
   • Many pubs and bars refused to serve immigrants
   • Trade unions claimed that immigrants were taking British jobs

5. Contribution of immigrants to British society

   • Individuals - Sybil Phoenix lived in poverty then set up a youth group, given an award for her community work and became mayor of Lewisham
   • Public services - one third of all doctors in NHS born overseas
   • The economy - contribution by paying taxes, some specialise in special businesses becoming successful
   • Culture - they have enriched British society, Chines, Indian food and restuarants
   • Music and dance - Reggae, Bollywood, and events such as the Notting Hill Carnival
   • Religion - well established faiths in many parts of Britain played role in the multi-culture of Britain