Amsterdam residents can pick up a free booklet about the citys migration history. By the Grace of Migration can be found at the locations of the OBA, the City Offices, and the City Archive.
The booklet tells about the effect of migration on the development of Amsterdam. Over the past 750 years, since the founding of Amsterdam, people have continuously moved to and from the city. From other regions in the Netherlands, Europe, and the rest of the world. Together, they shaped the city into what it is today.
Patterns Through the Centuries
The booklet covers many different migration groups and forms of migration. It also shows patterns over the centuries, of exclusion and integration of newcomers. And how newcomers continuously brought new ideas, knowledge, and products to Amsterdam.
Based on Research
The booklet has 100 pages and many illustrations. It is based on a scientific book: Migration as DNA of Amsterdam, by historians Jan and Leo Lucassen. They wrote the book after the city council decided to conduct research into the citys migration history.
Pick-Up Points
The booklets are available for free as long as supplies last. The supply is regularly replenished for a week. The booklets can be picked up at:
You can also download the booklet at amsterdam.nl/migratieboekje.
