Migration and Demographic Changes in Europe (1950s-1980s)

Key Topics

• Population Trends in Europe
• Economic Recovery and Job Market
• Immigration and Guest Workers
• Cultural and Religious Impact
• Political and Social Reactions

1. Population Trends in Europe

• In the 1950s and 1960s, Europe's population was aging and birth rates were declining.
• Despite this, the overall population increased significantly due to immigration.

2. Economic Recovery Post-WWII

• Western Europe experienced an economic boom dubbed the "Economic Miracle."
• There was a high demand for labor which exceeded the local supply.
• Women entering the workforce wasn't sufficient to meet this demand.

3. Immigration and Guest Workers

• European countries began relying on immigrants referred to as "guest workers."
• Many immigrants came from former colonies to their former imperial countries:
  • Indians moved to Britain.
  • North Africans moved to France.
• Europeans also migrated within Europe, e.g., Southern Europeans to Germany.
• By the 1980s, immigrants made up about 5% of the European population.

4. Cultural and Religious Impact

• Immigrants brought their cultures and religions, notably Islam, leading to debates about religion in European societies.
• This led to discussions and controversies about religious practices and their place in public life, such as traditional head coverings.

5. Political and Social Reactions

• The economic recession in the 1970s reduced job availability, leading to anti-immigrant sentiment.
• Political groups like France’s National Front sought to end immigration and restrict immigrants from integrating into society.
  • They received significant voter support, influencing other conservative parties.
• Austria’s Freedom Party had some success in elections with a similar platform.

Conclusion

• The influx of approximately 15 million immigrants over the latter half of the 20th century significantly altered European society and its economy.

Additional Resources

• AP Euro Review Pack: Recommended for further preparation for the AP Euro exam.