Migrants, Immigration and Diversity in Twentieth-century Northern Ireland: British, Irish or 'Other'?

This book explores the complex dynamics of national identity and immigration in Northern Ireland, comparing the experiences of Italian, Indian, Chinese, and Vietnamese migrants. It investigates whether it is possible for migrants and minorities to remain neutral in a politicized society and how internal divisions affect the identity and belonging of later generations. It encourages scholars to adopt a more diverse, "four-nation approach" to UK immigration studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 273 pages
Publication date: 02 January 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This book delves into the complex and multifaceted phenomenon of being 'British' or 'Irish' in the twenty-first century, with a specific focus on twentieth-century Northern Ireland. It explores how the fragmented and diverse nature of national identity has shaped and continues to influence responses to social issues such as immigration. During the twentieth century, thousands of immigrants flocked to Northern Ireland, a trend that persisted even during the three decades of the Troubles, a violent and bloody conflict that claimed the lives of over 3,600 individuals. By foregrounding the everyday lived experiences of these settlers, this groundbreaking book offers a comparative examination of the perspectives of Italian, Indian, Chinese, and Vietnamese migrants in Northern Ireland. It sheds light on the unique challenges faced by individuals migrating to this small, intensely divided part of the United Kingdom. The book delves into the question of whether migrants and minorities can maintain a neutral stance within an intensely politicized society, and how internal divisions have impacted the identity and belonging of subsequent generations. An analysis of diversity and immigration within this divided society provides valuable insights into the forces that shape perceptions of national insiders and outsiders, not only in the UK and Ireland but also across the globe. It raises and addresses a range of questions about how conceptions of nationality, race, culture, and ethnicity have intersected to shape attitudes toward migrants. By encouraging scholars to adopt a more diverse and inclusive approach to UK immigration studies, this book becomes an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the history of migration in the UK.

Weight: 508g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031188206
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023