I don't think that this country has gone backwards. We have always had immigration, and always had issues with it. King Henry VI introduced a tax on Aliens and their exports, in an attempt to protect English trade, back in 1453, as the city thought that there was a "IMMIGRATION PROBLEM." The thing is, we whine about this s***, where it's no more different now than it was 700 odd years ago. It's just easy to blame someone else, rather than realise the truth that it's these politicans and leaders that are the problem. They pocket our money, and do a sub-standard job!
It must be noted, however, that Henry VI was particularly mad during the year of 1453. The tax of which you speak was undoubtedly the work of the King's 'retainers', especially those who feared their wine, wool and spice trades were in danger of being eroded by cheaper (foreign) alternatives.
Totally get that he was mad, in Michael Hick's 'War of the Roses' they speak about civil unrest of the common folk, due to influx of aliens, that the measures put on them and exports, generated hostility between France, and damaged the economy, which was one of the contributing factors in the First War.
Civil discord certainly offered kindling to the fires of war, yet there can be no doubt the feuding royal powers used the people's woes as excuses for their own destructive ends. Money will always be made from war, and what better way to start one than championing the cause of the lowborn. Groups of aliens have lived in Britain since Roman times and for the most part have been content and prosperous. The modern form of immigration is sweeping, oppressive and generally unneeded.
There's a big St. George's Day Festival at my local tomorrow, the Five Bells at Chelsfield Village. Not too far from Vol's neck of the woods, and it's a lovely pub, serving excellent beer.
Have a listen to "Jackie and Murphy" by Martin Simpson, about 2 of the heroes of Gallipolli. "And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda" is a fine tribute by Eric Bogle.
Coope Boyes and Simpson have done some very moving songs from WW1. The pick is Lay Me Low. If you can watch the You-tube video of this track with a dry eye I'll be surprised.
