The Huguenots

This section explores the Huguenots, migration and settlement in England in the16th and 17th Century. The 16th and 17th centuries in England saw a number of significant migrations, but these generally had a limited impact on the country’s economy, as the numbers involved were relatively small. One notable exception to this trend was the migration of the Huguenots, a group of French Protestants who sought refuge in England during the late 17th century. Their migration not only had a profound influence on the social and cultural landscape of England but also contributed to the country's economic development.

The Huguenot Migration

The Huguenots were French Protestants who followed the teachings of John Calvin. During the 16th and 17th centuries, France was a predominantly Catholic country, and the Huguenots faced severe religious persecution. The situation worsened after the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre of 1572, when thousands of Huguenots were killed in France. By the late 17th century, the French government, under Louis XIV, revoked the Edict of Nantes (1685), which had previously granted the Huguenots religious freedom. This led to further persecution and forced many Huguenots to flee their homeland.

Many of the Huguenots sought refuge in Protestant countries, with England being one of the primary destinations. Between 40,000 and 50,000 Huguenots arrived in England, most of them settling in major towns and cities, particularly London. This influx of migrants occurred during a period of significant political and religious change in England, particularly after the Glorious Revolution of 1688, which saw the Protestant William of Orange take the throne. This event further solidified Protestantism in England and made the country a more welcoming place for Huguenot refugees.

Economic Contributions of the Huguenots

Although the number of Huguenot immigrants to England was relatively small in comparison to some other migration waves, their economic impact was significant. Many Huguenots were skilled craftsmen and professionals, and they brought with them expertise in a wide range of industries, particularly textile weaving, watchmaking, banking, and other crafts. Their skills made them valuable additions to the English economy, and they quickly became integrated into urban life, especially in London, which was the largest and most prosperous city in England at the time.

In particular, Huguenots contributed to the development of the English silk industry. Several Huguenot families were already skilled in silk weaving, and they helped establish London as a major centre for the production of high-quality silk textiles. These contributions to the textile industry were crucial in helping England establish itself as a leader in European manufacturing during the 17th and 18th centuries.

Additionally, many Huguenots brought expertise in the financial sector, especially in banking. Some of the Huguenot refugees worked as moneylenders, merchants, and financiers, and they played a role in the development of the banking system in England. They were instrumental in facilitating trade and investment, which helped fuel the country's economic growth during the period.

Social Integration and Religious Similarities

The Huguenots were able to assimilate relatively easily into English society. This was in part due to the Protestant nature of their religion, which was very similar to the religious practices of the Church of England, the dominant Protestant denomination in England after the Glorious Revolution. As a result, the Huguenots faced fewer cultural barriers than many other immigrant groups.

The Huguenots also tended to settle in areas where other Protestants lived, and they often found refuge in existing Protestant churches. This allowed them to maintain their religious practices without facing significant persecution. Over time, the Huguenots integrated into the wider English society, and their descendants often intermarried with native English families.

One of the key aspects of Huguenot integration was their focus on education and professional development. Many Huguenots were highly educated and valued intellectual pursuits. This emphasis on education helped them succeed in their new homeland, and many became influential figures in English society.

Prominent Huguenot Descendants

Over the course of the 18th century, several descendants of Huguenot refugees became famous for their contributions to British society, particularly in the fields of culture, science, and industry.

• David Garrick (1717–1779) was one of the most famous actors and playwrights of the 18th century. He is particularly remembered for his influential performances of Shakespeare’s works and for bringing a more realistic and emotional style of acting to the stage. Garrick was the grandson of a Huguenot wine merchant who had fled Bordeaux during the persecution of Protestants in France. His family’s migration to England provided him with the opportunity to become one of the leading figures in the world of theatre.
• John Dollond (1706–1761) was an inventor and optician who founded an optical instruments business in London in 1750. He is best known for improving the achromatic lens, which revolutionised the field of optics. His company later became the renowned firm Dollond & Aitchison, a name still associated with optical retail today. Dollond’s success in business and science was a direct result of his Huguenot heritage and the skills his family brought with them when they migrated to England.

These are just two examples of how Huguenot refugees made significant contributions to English society and culture. Many other Huguenot families became successful in a wide range of fields, including trade, education, and the arts, helping to shape England’s economy and cultural landscape during the 18th century.

Legacy of the Huguenots in England

The Huguenot migration had a lasting impact on England, particularly in terms of its cultural and economic development. The Huguenots played a crucial role in the growth of industries like silk weaving and watchmaking, and they helped to advance the English financial sector. Their skills and expertise were a major asset to the country, and many Huguenot families became highly successful in their new homeland.

In addition to their economic contributions, the Huguenots also had a lasting influence on English society through their cultural and intellectual contributions. The Huguenot refugees brought with them a strong tradition of education and intellectual curiosity, which influenced the development of science, literature, and the arts in England.

Today, the Huguenot legacy can still be seen in England, particularly in London, where many Huguenot descendants continue to live. Their contributions to English life, both in terms of their professional achievements and their integration into society, remain a testament to the resilience and influence of this remarkable group of refugees.

Conclusion

The Huguenot migration to England in the 16th and 17th centuries had a profound impact on the country. These skilled and educated refugees contributed to England’s economic growth, particularly in the textile and financial sectors, and played a key role in the development of British culture. The Huguenots’ ability to integrate into English society, coupled with their strong religious and cultural similarities to the Protestant majority, made them one of the most successful immigrant groups in English history. Their legacy continues to be remembered and celebrated today, particularly through the success of their descendants in various fields.