Migration and Ethnicity in Coalfield History

This book explores the complex interactions of ethnicity and labor in coal mining communities worldwide, particularly highlighting the historical significance of coal.

In Migration and Ethnicity in Coalfield History, the author delves into the complex relationships between ethnic identities, labor dynamics, and class structures within coal mining communities. This comprehensive examination spans various regions, including Africa, Asia, the Americas, the Soviet Union, and Western Europe, offering a global perspective on the historical significance of coal mining. The text discusses how coal has been a cornerstone for industrial and transportation advancements since the 19th century, facilitating globalization and colonial expansion through its energy production.

The book highlights the labor-intensive nature of coal mining, emphasizing the challenges mine operators faced in recruiting and managing workers. Often, these efforts targeted marginalized groups, which in turn fostered intricate social environments marked by ethnic interactions and class distinctions. Through twelve insightful articles, the volume explores an array of themes, such as segregation, forced labor, subcontracting, and the associated struggles for rights and recognition among miners.

By examining the dynamics of labor relations, migration patterns, and ethnic identities, Migration and Ethnicity in Coalfield History provides a vital understanding of how these elements have shaped the history of coalfields globally. The work serves as an essential resource for those interested in the interplay between ethnicity and labor in historical contexts, revealing the rich tapestry of human experience within the coal mining sector.