Migrant City

The history of London is a history of immigration. Two millennia ago, Roman invaders founded the city. Since then, it has developed into a global financial capital and multicultural hub in which over three hundred languages are spoken.

Panikos Panayi here explores the rich and vibrant history of London’s immigration scene. Ranging from Jewish and German immigrants in the Victorian period to the Windrush generation invited from Caribbean countries in the twentieth century, as well as earlier continental financiers and more recent European Union citizens, Panayi shows how migration has been fundamental to London’s economic, social, political and cultural development. He showcases the various ways in which newcomers have shaped London life, acting as cheap labour, contributing to the success of its financial sector, its curry houses, and its football clubs. Without immigration, driven by globalisation, Panayi argues, London would not have become the world capital it is today.