Dundee, a maritime town in Scotland, boasts a rich history of cultural diversity and immigration that has shaped its identity over the centuries. This blog post explores the various waves of immigration and their impact on the city's development, as well as Dundee's complex relationship with slavery and its role in the anti-slavery movement.
Early Immigration and Maritime Influences
Dundee's history of immigration dates back to the 11th century, with Danish settlers arriving, followed by Flemish immigrants in the 12th and 13th centuries. The city's harbour and docks area became a cultural melting pot, attracting sailors from across the globe. In 1911, artist John Duncan vividly described the diverse array of people he encountered at the harbour as a child, including "swarthy creatures like pirates from the Spanish Main; Chinamen and Hindoos [sic], and an occasional Lapp; lanky blue-eyed Scandinavians".
Slavery and Its Impact on Dundee
The presence of Black residents in Dundee can be traced back to the era of Empire and slavery. The street name "Sugarhouse Wynd" serves as a physical reminder of the wealth generated through trade with slave-dependent Caribbean plantations. At least 16 individuals or families from Dundee and its vicinity profited directly from slavery, according to the UCL Slavery database.
A notable case involving slavery in Dundee's history is that of John Wedderburn of Ballindean, who brought an enslaved man named Joseph Knight to Scotland in 1769. Knight's subsequent freedom suit established the principle that Scots law would not uphold slavery.
Dundee's Role in the Anti-Slavery Movement
Despite its connections to slavery, Dundee also played a significant role in the anti-slavery movement. Notable figures include:
- Frances Wright, who founded the Nashoba Commune in Tennessee, USA
- J C Smith of Newport and Rev George Gilfillan, active campaigners against slavery
- The Dundee Ladies Anti-Slavery Society, a popular organisation in the 1850s
Dundee hosted several prominent anti-slavery speakers, including Frederick Douglass, William Wells Brown, William and Ellen Craft, and Harriet Beecher Stowe.
Industrial Growth and Immigration
The growth of the jute industry in Dundee led to strong connections with India. This resulted in Indian jute workers coming to Dundee to study at the Technical College. The city's higher education institutions played a crucial role in stimulating ethnic diversity in the local population.
Post-War Immigration and Community Development
The post-World War II era saw an increase in immigration from various countries:
- Polish immigrants arrived during and after the Second World War
- Pakistani and Bangladeshi students came to study at Dundee Technical College
- Asian Muslims from Malawi settled in Dundee in the late 1960s
- A growing Chinese community established itself, with the first Chinese restaurant opening in 1961
Modern Diversity and Challenges
By 1991, ethnic minorities made up 2% of Dundee's population, growing to 6% by 2011. The city has seen the establishment of various cultural and religious institutions, including:
- The Dundee International Women's Centre (founded in 1969)
- Multiple mosques, with the first opening in 1969
- The Bharatiya Ashram, founded in 1995
- The Al-Maktoum College of Higher Education, established in 2001
Dundee's history of immigration and cultural diversity shapes the city's identity, creating a rich tapestry of cultures that contributes to its unique character and ongoing development.
For more information visit - https://abertay.org.uk/woven-together/
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