ScottishItalians

ScottishItalians are people of Italian ancestry who live in or have emigrated from Scotland. The history of Italian immigration to Scotland is primarily linked to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many Italians arrived in Scotland seeking economic opportunities, often finding work in the catering industry, particularly in the establishment of fish and chip shops and ice cream parlours. These businesses became a significant cultural feature in many Scottish towns and cities.

The main waves of immigration occurred in the periods before World War I and between the two World Wars. Over time, ScottishItalians have integrated into Scottish society, contributing to its culture, economy, and social fabric. While some families have maintained strong ties to their Italian heritage, subsequent generations have become largely assimilated into Scottish life. During World War II, Italians in Britain, including Scotland, faced internment as enemy aliens, a period that caused significant hardship and disruption for many communities. Despite this, the Italian presence in Scotland has continued, with descendants of these early immigrants now deeply embedded within Scottish society, often holding prominent positions in various professions and communities.