Migration in the 19th Century
Index 1. Introduction 2. North Africa 3.1. Algeria 3.2. Tunisia 3.3. Egypt 3.4. Tripolitania – Libya 3. Eastern Mediterranean 4. The other countries 5. Conclusion 6. Bibliography
1. Introduction
Emigration was directly linked to the situation in the country of origin. Especially from 1820 onwards Malta had formidable problems with redundant population. Peace in the country developed occupancies, which led to unemployment throughout the country. Although the country was afflicted by several diseases like the plague in 1813 and cholera this did little to curb the unstoppable growth in population.
Many inhabitants saw emigration, as the only possible solution to avoid the crisis of overpopulation, which would have left them with no or little income. Especially men left their home country for a better occupation, whilst women stayed at home or followed later (Dr. C. Cassar). In the early years, emigration was primarily an escape from the misery at home. After a while the need to go abroad was found in all social classes, but with different ambitions, being the eager of survival or the desideratum for a better life in a more educated world (Price, C.A., page 36). Furthermore the British Government implemented schemes to settle Maltese in other parts of the English empire. Cyprus for instance was lacking a healthy population, therefore the British tried to settle Maltese inhabitants there, to counterbalance both populations. As one will see later on, this was largely unsuccessful.
The average Maltese inhabitant, loves his country and its traditions. Therefore leaving their fatherland and exploring new and unknown domains was, as stated previously, mostly not a choice but a necessity. To make it easier for them as well as to not completely lose touch with their folkway, it is eye-catching that most emigrants chose a destination in or close to the Mediterranean. Here they would find the same climate,
1. Introduction
Emigration was directly linked to the situation in the country of origin. Especially from 1820 onwards Malta had formidable problems with redundant population. Peace in the country developed occupancies, which led to unemployment throughout the country. Although the country was afflicted by several diseases like the plague in 1813 and cholera this did little to curb the unstoppable growth in population.
Many inhabitants saw emigration, as the only possible solution to avoid the crisis of overpopulation, which would have left them with no or little income. Especially men left their home country for a better occupation, whilst women stayed at home or followed later (Dr. C. Cassar). In the early years, emigration was primarily an escape from the misery at home. After a while the need to go abroad was found in all social classes, but with different ambitions, being the eager of survival or the desideratum for a better life in a more educated world (Price, C.A., page 36). Furthermore the British Government implemented schemes to settle Maltese in other parts of the English empire. Cyprus for instance was lacking a healthy population, therefore the British tried to settle Maltese inhabitants there, to counterbalance both populations. As one will see later on, this was largely unsuccessful.
The average Maltese inhabitant, loves his country and its traditions. Therefore leaving their fatherland and exploring new and unknown domains was, as stated previously, mostly not a choice but a necessity. To make it easier for them as well as to not completely lose touch with their folkway, it is eye-catching that most emigrants chose a destination in or close to the Mediterranean. Here they would find the same climate,