Early Modern England (1500–1700): Migration, Society, and Legislation

Foreign Protestants Naturalisation Act (1709)

A law that allowed any foreign Protestant to become a British citizen for a small fee.

Global Expansion

The growth of the British Empire and the East India Company brought Africans and Asians to Britain.

Huguenot Push

The 1685 Revocation of the Edict of Nantes made Protestantism illegal in France, forcing thousands to flee.

Integration

Many Huguenots Anglicized their names (e.g., L'Orange to Orange) to blend into English society.

Letters of Denization

A legal process where the King granted migrants specific rights, like the ability to own land.

Royal Courts

African musicians like John Blanke held high-status political/social positions in the Tudor court.

Skills Influx

Huguenots brought 'niche' skills like silk-weaving, watchmaking, and advanced banking.

The Reformation

England became a Protestant 'safe haven' for those fleeing Catholic persecution in Europe.

Trade Wealth

Migrants were drawn to London as it became a global center for finance and trade.

Welfare

The 'Stranger' communities (Flemings/Walloons) in Sandwich and Canterbury set up their own schools and churches.