The History of Bangladeshis 'in Greater Manchester is a hugely
significant project that charted the arrival, settlement, and progress
of Bangladeshis' in the UK. The oral presentations record their journey
focusing on family life, education, employment, culture religion, and
traditions. Many of the first settlers are now elderly (many sadly
passed away) and their memories and experiences are being lost as their
testimonies have not been recorded and preserved. Over 5 years, I spoke
to more than 50 people, the first generation Bangladeshis' who gave me a
snapshot of their life, early days, experiences, hardships, and much
more; an insight that was eye-opening, fascinating, and full of
happiness, sadness, hardship, hope, and aspiration. I have captured the
valued experiences and memories of so many who have paved the way and
helped us to make this area a rich, vibrant, and dynamic place to live
with their customs, traditions and folklore that are being passed on to
new generations of Bangladeshis and future generations from those
"hardened by Manchester" who have lived through the changes that Britain
has undergone in the last 60 years