The impact of the World Wars on migration to and from Britain
I can recall that many soldiers from Britain's colonies fought for Britain in both World Wars, and that this had impacts on both migration and empire.
The impact of the World Wars on migration to and from Britain
I can recall that many soldiers from Britain's colonies fought for Britain in both World Wars, and that this had impacts on both migration and empire.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- During World War One thousands of Indian soldiers fought on the Western Front, then moved to Britain.
- Many African and Caribbean soldiers joined the navy, leading to the 1919 riots in Liverpool and Cardiff.
- Many colonial soldiers also served in World War Two, though they often returned to the colonies.
- WW2 created a labour shortage that meant that the government encouraged immigration from the Commonwealth.
Keywords
Colony - a country or area under the control of another country and occupied by settlers from that country
Commonwealth - an international organisation consisting of states which once belonged to the British Empire
Windrush - the name of the ship bringing the first cohort of migrants from the Caribbean to Britain after the Second World War
Common misconception
Non-white soldiers and citizens of the Commonwealth played a small role during and after both World Wars.
Non-white soldiers and citizens of the Commonwealth played a significant role during and after both World Wars.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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