In this article, we will explore everything related to Austrian Canadians, from its origins to its impact on modern society. Austrian Canadians has been a topic of interest for decades, its roots go back to ancient times and its relevance is still palpable today. Throughout history, Austrian Canadians has sparked debate, been a source of inspiration for artists, and had a significant impact on popular culture. In this article, we will examine the most relevant aspects of Austrian Canadians, from its meaning in society to its evolution over time.
Austrian Canadian communities can be found throughout the country but with a higher concentration mainly in Western Canada.
History
Austrian Canadian Population History
Year
Pop.
±%
1901
10,947
—
1911
44,036
+302.3%
1921
107,671
+144.5%
1931
48,639
−54.8%
1941
37,715
−22.5%
1951
32,231
−14.5%
1961
106,535
+230.5%
1971
107,671
+1.1%
1981
40,630
−62.3%
1986
74,640
+83.7%
1991
93,915
+25.8%
1996
140,520
+49.6%
2001
147,585
+5.0%
2006
194,255
+31.6%
2011
197,990
+1.9%
2016
207,050
+4.6%
Source: Statistics Canada : 17 Note: 1981 Canadian census did not include multiple ethnic origin responses, thus population is an undercount.
In the 17th century, soldiers from Austria settled in New France. Numbers increased following the passing of the Staatsgrundgesetz (constitutional law) in 1867 which allowed free migration from Austria-Hungary for civilians. Emigration to Canada increased throughout the late 19th century and into the early 20th, until this was tightened in 1914 at the onset of World War I.Many immigrants from Austria-Hungary to Canada were interned and used for enslaved labour during World War I. Beginning in 1914, subjects of the Habsburg Crown, especially Ukrainian-speakers from Austrian Galicia, were placed in twenty-four internment camps across Canada, the last of which closed in 1920.
Demographics
Austrian Canadian population by province and territory in Canada in 2011: