Why are there large Asian communities in England? - Presentation

The significant Asian communities present in England today have their roots in the historical ties between the British Empire and the Indian subcontinent, which encompassed present-day India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. These connections fostered a sense of belonging to the Commonwealth, prompting many from these regions to migrate to Britain. The presentation by Focus Education (UK) Ltd aims to help pupils understand this link and explore the impact of immigration on Britain over the last century. It delves into the experiences of migrants from Punjab in India, Mirpur in Pakistan, and Sylhet in Bangladesh, highlighting their reasons for moving, which ranged from seeking refuge from civil unrest to searching for better economic opportunities and reuniting with family already in the UK.

Despite facing discrimination, South Asian migrants have established themselves firmly in the UK, contributing significantly to its political, social, and economic fabric. Many Punjabis, for instance, found work in manufacturing, textiles, and services after World War II due to Britain's labour shortages. Pakistani migrants, particularly from the Mirpur region, took up employment in various industries, and their migration was accelerated by the construction of the Mangla dam in 1966. Bangladeshi migration, although more recent, has seen many settling in East London, with a shift from working in mills to establishing small businesses such as tailoring and catering. The presentation encourages students to engage with individuals from the Asian sub-continent to gain personal insights into the migration experience and its long-lasting impact on Britain's cultural and societal landscape.