Internal and external migration have been all-pervasive features of Scottish life. In 1851, more than half the population had moved from their parish of birth before they were twenty; there was also significant seasonal migration. Except where there was rapid industrial growth, net out-migration was a pervasive feature of almost all parts of the country. Scottish net overseas emigration was the highest or second highest in Europe for most of our period. There were also large flows to England at all dates but also significant immigration from all parts of the UK, though less from overseas compared to England. Emigration disproportionately involved young adults and skilled and educated men. Reasons for Scotland’s high emigration compared to England’s are explored. Local case studies show that, particularly in the industrial areas, Scotland’s demography had an inherent dynamism which produced far more young adults than the slowly growing economy could support.
