History Extra podcast Elizabethan London: a multicultural melting pot
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Jan 17, 2025 Dr. John Gallagher, an Associate Professor of Early Modern History at the University of Leeds, dives into the rich tapestry of Elizabethan London's multicultural past. He discusses the diverse migration patterns of 'strangers' fleeing conflict and the personal struggles faced by women seeking refuge. The conversation reveals how church records reflect societal norms while also showcasing the friction between migrant communities and authorities. Gallagher also explores how churches acted as multilingual hubs, fostering cultural exchange in this vibrant, historical melting pot.
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Elizabethan London's Multiculturalism
- 16th-century London was a diverse city with migrants due to religious conflicts and global trade.
- This included refugees from Europe, indigenous Americans, and enslaved Africans.
Terms for Migrants
- In 16th-century England, migrants were commonly referred to as "strangers" or "aliens".
- This term designated individuals entering the country from abroad.
Reasons and Routes of Migration
- Migration during the latter half of the 16th century was largely driven by the French Wars of Religion and the Dutch Revolt.
- These conflicts resulted in many Protestants, and some from further abroad like North Africa, seeking refuge in England, often via dangerous sea crossings.