Why Did the British Allow Non-British Settlers in the Original 13 Colonies?

Historical Context and Border Control in the 17th and 18th Centuries

In the 17th and 18th centuries, both in Europe and the colonies, border control was minimal. Civilians were free to settle wherever they wished, often traveling across borders without hindrance. In times of war, a person's nationality might raise suspicion, but there was little formal border control to police such movements. This lack of control meant that many individuals from different backgrounds found themselves in the 13 original colonies of America.

Natives' Perspectives on British Settlement

A more pertinent question would be why and how the native populations allowed the British to settle in America in the first place. At the time, national origin was not as significant as allegiance to a particular power. Populations mattered, and this proved true for the British, who were able to establish a strong presence. Some of the existing populations were conquered, such as the Dutch in New Amsterdam, which became New York. Thus, the Dutch were allowed to remain.

Colonial Governance and Immigration Policies

The colonies were largely self-governed by the British Empire, with significant autonomy. Until 1707, this was primarily the Kingdom of England. Since 1801, it became the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. The British Empire did not mind who migrated to the colonies, as long as the immigrants were not criminals. This approach was quite different from the policies implemented by Australia in its early years.

Welsh and Scottish emigration to the colonies was common, with many Irish and German immigrants also seeking better lives. Even though these non-British immigrants were not from England or Wales, the British Empire did not experience any trouble from them. In fact, they were often very productive and cooperative. The vast majority of settlers were English and Welsh, comprising around 80% of the population, not counting the tragic presence of African slaves.

Skills and Prosperity Brought by Non-British Immigrants

Many non-British immigrants brought valuable skills that allowed the 13 colonies to thrive. For example, the iconic 'Pennsylvania/Kentucky long rifle' became a symbol of American ingenuity and craftsmanship. This is in stark contrast to the struggles faced by French and Spanish colonies in attracting skilled craftsmen and settlers.

The British strategy of welcoming non-British immigrants, particularly those from nations that posed no military threat, proved to be a successful one. This openness to immigrants from diverse backgrounds ensured that the colonies would prosper and grow into the powerful nation we see today.

The legacy of British colonization and the 13 original colonies is a complex one, shaped by the interactions between various groups and the policies that governed them. The inclusion of non-British settlers was a strategic decision that contributed significantly to the early prosperity and development of the colonies.