Explain the reasons why Irish immigrants had an impact on Scotland

How did Irish navvies contribute to Scotland’s economy?

The labor contribution of Irish navies built the Glasgow subway, improving transport in the city —> This was positive as they were willing to go where their manual labor was required and keep Scotland's industry moving forward

Why did Irish Protestant immigrants often have positive economic experiences?

Irish Protestants were often more skilled and educated than their Catholic counterparts. This was positive as they worked in better paid skilled roles and took on jobs as engineers in firms like Bards of Coatbridge and as train drivers or signal workers in Glasgow. 

Why did religion create negative experiences for Irish Catholics?

The Scottish Reformation Society was founded in 1850 as Scotland was a Protestant country and they felt threatened by the growing Catholic Irish population —> This was negative as Irish Catholics were accused of following a different leader in the Pope and of having no loyalty to Scotland. 

How did Celtic FC support the Irish Catholic community?

The Catholic Church took steps to develop Catholic organizations such as Celtic FC in 1887. This was positive as it developed a distinct Catholic community and identity with the goal of lessening poverty in Glasgow's East End.

Why was the Orange Order both positive and negative for Irish immigrants?

The Orange Order was formed to celebrate the distinct identity of the Protestant Irish. By 1835, there were 12 lodges in Glasgow. This was both positive and negative as the spread of the orange order was an expression of prejudice against Irish Catholics and to create their own identity. 

How did the 1918 Education Act affect Irish Catholics?

The Education Scotland Act 1918 allowed Catholic schools to receive funding from the government, give Catholic education, and select their own teachers, allowing them to keep their own identity —> This was negative as it angered Protestant Scots who argued that their tax should not be used to pay for Catholic schools.

Why were Irish immigrants important to the Labour movement?

The Irish were important in the trade union movement and the development of the Labor Party. Irish supported the Labor Party because the policies promised to deal with issues like poor housing act —> This was positive as their support helped it continually grow.