Britain has largely been in denial of its migrant past along with an assumption of tolerance towards minorities. Colin Holmes was the first and most important historian to challenge this view. This book celebrates his achievements, but explores the state of migrant historiography (including responses to migrants) in the twenty first century.
Britain has largely been in denial of its migrant past - it is often suggested that the arrivals after 1945 represent a new phenomenon and not the continuation of a much longer and deeper trend. There is also an assumption that Britain is a tolerant country towards minorities that distinguishes itself from the rest of Europe and beyond.
The historian who was the first and most important to challenge this dominant view is Colin Holmes, who, from the early 1970s onwards, provided a framework for a different interpretation based on extensive research. This challenge came not only through his own work but also that of a 'new school' of students who studied under him and the creation of the journal Immigrants and Minorities in 1982.¿
This volume not only celebrates this remarkable achievement, but also explores the state of migrant historiography (including responses to migrants) in the twenty-first century.
"This invaluable collection provides an insight into the range of contributions that Colin Holmes made to the historical study of immigration and minorities. The essays collected here are written by his many former students and colleagues and are evidence of the depth of his work and its continuing relevance today. A must read for all who want to situate migration within a broader historical frame." Professor John Solomos, Sociology, University of Warwick
"A fitting tribute to a truly pioneering scholar whose?individual endeavour, as well as unstinting support for junior academics, has?resulted in?a much greater understanding of the importance of migration in modern Britain.?Its coverage is truly astounding and its list of?contributors reads like a veritable 'Who's Who' within this now well-developed and well-respected?academic field" Dr David Dee, Associate Professor in Modern History, De Montfort University. Author of The 'Estranged' Generation? Social and Generational Change in Interwar British Jewry (2017) and Sport and British Jewry: Integration, Ethnicity and Anti-Semitism, 1880-1970 (2013)
"Anyone wandering into the field of Britain's migration history soon discovers that the indispensable work has already been done - by Colin Holmes. Many years before it became a fashionable or topical subject, he became its master. There is not much written on the subject, even now, that does not owe a great deal to his original and inspiring spadework."?Robert Winder, Migration Museum Project Trustee, UK.
