1919 British race riots

A number of race riots occurred in Britain between January and August 1919, with sporadic recurrences in 1920 and 1921. They marked a significant moment when the presence of minority ethnic people living in the country, including long-time residents and war veterans, came to public attention.

The demobilization of troops after World War I had led to intense post-war job competition. The perception that foreigners were taking away jobs became a trigger for the rioting and attacks on black and minority ethnic communities, especially in British port cities.

In the ports of South Shields, Glasgow, London's East End, Salford, Hull, Liverpool, Cardiff, Barry and Newport there were race riots targeting ethnic minority populations. Over the course of the riots there were five fatalities, as well as widespread vandalism of property.