Italians of Montreal

The first Italian visits to Canada began within the 14th century under the French regime and Newfoundland under England’s purpose to explore and claim lands and missionary work for Italians. Particularly in Montreal, Italian migration can be traced since the late 1800s although there were already few hundred Italian artists and tradesmen before then. The first wave of Italian migrants to this city began in the late 1900’s until after the first World War. Most of them came from Southern Italian region of Calabria, Molise, Campagnia and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. During the 18th to 19th century is the start of early settlers in Canada. A short period from early to middle of the 19th century has stopped the stream of immigration due to immigration policies being passed that is unfavourable to immigrants from Southern and Eastern Euroope. After the second world war until the early 70’s came the biggest wave of emigrants while from 1972 to the present time, began the decline in immigration. The Italians face obstacles that made it difficult for them to migrate to Canada.

The first settlement is composed of seasonal workers and settlers. World War I brought so much devastation causing inflation, unemployment, fragmentation of peasant farms, poverty, poor health and education, heavy taxation and political dissatisfaction that forced Italians to find better areas to work or live. In Canada, however, railway and mining industries prospered generating demands for workers that sparked this batch of migrants. The low cost of oceanic travel, success of previous immigrants, good wages and better job opportunities are also other factors that pulled them to Canada. The seasonal workers came here to work during spring until fall then go b...

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... Not to mention enduring loneliness being away from your family for quite some time especially for a closely-knit type like the Italians. It was a little better for the next wave of immigrants as they have already gotten advices and tips from those who have gone there before. The consequence of moving to find greener pasture is experienced everywhere you go, but once you get settled, the future starts to look brighter. You will be able now to reap the benefits of your hard work and suffering. Institutions, organizations can now be established along side community life. Opportunities for business and trade will open up and even involvement in government and politics. Once you have adapted to their way of life, you can now enjoy the benefits citizens enjoy – participating in elections, entitlement to education, housing, pension, health benefits, and many more.