Immigration History

By 1850, the Port of Quebec handled two-thirds of European immigration to British North America. Transatlantic passenger traffic increased due to Quebec City’s geographic proximity to Europe. Accordingly, the Quebec Harbour Commission improved port infrastructure with the construction of the Bassin Louise and the Princess Louise docks, and expanded immigration facilities further improving the reception of immigrants. During the First World War, the Port of Quebec was an embarkation point for soldiers heading to Europe.

During Pier 21’s years of operation, Canada placed a high priority on medical screening of immigrants. Pier 21 was one of the few Canadian immigration facilities that integrated medical treatment areas and immigration accommodations. Although many immigrants obtained medical examinations overseas to relieve the burden on Pier 21’s medical officers, the facilities in Halifax included both a clinic and hospital. Pier 21’s medical infrastructure underwent constant renewal and renovation and policies and technologies changed.

Immigrants were particularly vulnerable to unemployment during the Great Depression in the 1930s, a time of increased Canadian nativism. The Canadian government implemented exclusionary immigration policies, applying severe restrictions to entry and drastically increasing deportation. “Unsuitable” immigrants, such as those in jail or hospitals, or otherwise living at public expense, became key targets for exclusion and deportation. The average annual deportation rate rose to six times the previous normal, and immigration centers were often overwhelmed.

Pier 21’s immigration quarters included “accommodation” for people who were delayed due to minor issues, and “detention” for people held for security reasons. Windows with bars or mesh prevented escape, and although some people were free to leave during the day, significant security risks had stricter rules. Recreation areas, airing galleries and dining facilities were available, and matrons were responsible for immigrants’ welfare. After Pier 21’s closure, hotels and jails were used in replacement.

Canada’s early twentieth-century efforts to obstruct Black immigrants, particularly from the United States, were extraordinary. Canadian immigration officials ignored or attempted to dissuade potential Black immigrants. If they did attempt to enter the country, border agents, including doctors, discriminated against them. In 1911, Canada passed an Order-in-Council banning “any immigrants belonging to the Negro race,” which was repealed, but remained the practice of immigration officials until after the Second World War.

Canadian immigration officials consider many factors in determining whether an individual is admissible and can be granted entry to Canada. The arrival of Tamil asylum seekers in Newfoundland in August 1986 is one case that illustrates how legislation and the processing of newcomers to Canada is influenced by several factors, including the Immigration Act, regulations and procedures, local discretion of immigration officials, public opinion, and an individual’s desire to immigrate.

Western Canada received millions of immigrant settlers from 1867 to 1914, creating key industries such as agriculture, mining, and oil, and causing the Prairies to grow rapidly. Accessible transportation, free homesteads, safety, and work in Canada contributed to this immigration boom, as well as overpopulation, underemployment, discrimination, and environmental conditions in the immigrants’ home countries. This period of population growth later shaped Canada’s society, economy, and culture.

Canada has regulated immigration since 1869, and laws have been shaped by the social, political, and economic climate, as well as race, desirability, and integration. Elements of discrimination have often been prominent in Canadian immigration policy. In 1967, immigration policy was liberalized with the introduction of the “points system..” The cultural diversity of Canadian immigrants to Canada is now a key component of Canadian identity. Immigration legislation reflects Canada’s changing beliefs and its history of inclusion and exclusion.

The War of 1812 saw approximately 2,000 escaped slaves arrive in Nova Scotia, where they experienced hardships and were marginalized from society. The Black Refugees struggled during an economic depression and difficult farming conditions, and endured inequitable treatment by, white Nova Scotians including the government. Colonial authorities attempted to resettle the Black Refugees, but most refused and established sustainable communities. Black Nova Scotian communities have continued their growth over time.