Reasons For Scottish Immigration Flashcards
Problems in Farming
Farming was very difficult Thin and acidic soil Harsh climate Few areas were suitable for farming Increased population mean there was more need for food
Highland Clearances
Landowners wanted to make as much money as possible and sheep farming was more profitable than lending land to crofters. Many crofters were evicted from their homes.
Evictions
In 1814 forced removal of tenant farmers began.
Clearances were cruel, tenants were often given very little notice, houses and possessions left inside homes were burnt.
Many had nowhere to go so slept out in the open.
Blights
In 1846 the blight that caused the Irish potato crop to fail also hit the highlands.
However laws were brought in to help the highlanders which meant large scale famine was avoided.
Agricultural developments
In the 19th century people emigrated from the farming areas to lowlands.
Scientific improvements in how crops were grown and machines started to be used meaning less workers were needed.
The agricultural depression
Lasted from 1880-1914
Caused be low grain prices, high rents and wet weather. Many farm workers decided to cut their losses and head abroad.
The fishing depression
1884-1894 Russia became a competitor in the fishing industry and people emigrated from costal towns. People free often related and moved in family groups.
Journey
Travel improvements meant journey times were reduced. It took 1 week to travel across the Atlantic rather than the previous 6 weeks.
Railways meant people could get to ports quicker.
Assisted Emigration
Finically assistance was made available to some emigrants travelling to countries within the British empire from charities and government agents.
Kelp trade
Kelp was used to make soap but it was discovered that chemicals could be used and the industry declined, leaving people with unemployment.
